Good afternoon everyone.

We are here to provide another update on Tropical Storm Jerry, following a meeting this morning of the Emergency Measures Organisation.

Let me start with the good news – Tropical Storm Jerry’s winds are weakening and we anticipate the winds will continue to weaken.

Joining me today:

Mr. James Dodgson, the Director of the Bermuda Weather Service who will discuss the details of the storm.

Ms. Shelly Leman from BelCo is also here today to provide an update.

Let me give a brief overview.

Tomorrow, Wednesday, September 25th Bermuda will be open for business. Schools will be open, Government offices are open, and the causeway is open. Out of an abundance of caution we will pay very close attention to road conditions.

The Bermuda Regiment remains embodied.

There will be crews out overnight and during the day tomorrow assessing the road conditions and clearing debris as needed.

Starting at 10 pm tonight, we will keep the public updated on our Emergency Broadcast Station – 100.1 FM and we will provide information to local media. On Wednesday morning we will also provide updates to radio stations.

Let me repeat:

• All public schools will be open.
• All buses will be running.
• All Government offices will be open
• The causeway will remain open
• The ferry service will be suspended tomorrow.
• We anticipate that there will continue to be debris clearing, especially as winds pick up, and I urge everyone to use caution as they are riding and driving on our roads. If you don’t have to ride a bike, we urge you not to.
• Trash collection will be as normal.
• All beaches remain closed to swimming and water activities until Thursday.
• The emergency shelter at Cedarbridge Academy will open today at 5 pm and remain open throughout Wednesday. We encourage persons who feel unsafe in their homes due to damage from Hurricane Humberto, and people who live on boats to please go to the shelter.
• The L F Wade International Airport will operate today and tomorrow as normal. Check with the airlines directly for any flight queries.
• Also, you can go to bermudaairport.com for more information.

And, as I said yesterday, we recognize that this is a stressful time for all of us. People are experiencing a lot of anxiety. We urge everyone to pay close attention to their stress levels and those of loved ones.

If you are experiencing mental health or emotional challenges following these recent storms call 236-8253 from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday to speak to a Red Cross Psychosocial First Aider.

Between 4pm to 9am Monday to Friday, and any time Saturday and Sunday, call the MWI mainline 236-3770 and ask for the resource person.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis should call 911 at any time.

Please tune in to the Emergency Broadcast Station from 10 pm tonight for updates. If you know anyone who does not have access to online media sites – specifically our seniors – please encourage them to listen to 100.1 FM at 1:30 pm today and we will go live this evening at 10 pm with updates.

Thank you.