As Bermuda begins to feel the effects of Hurricane Franklin, the Ministry of National Security provided some reminders following the 12.00 noon Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) update.
Currently, Franklin is a category 2 hurricane.
The Ministry advised of the following:
- The BWS 12noon has Hurricane Franklin currently at 140 nautical miles to the west northwest of Bermuda.
- Franklin maintains a northeasterly direction at 11 knots with sustained winds of 90 knots and gusts reaching up to 110 knots.
- Hurricane Franklin’s closest point of approach is anticipated to be at 5.00 p.m. today at 122 nautical miles to the north northwest of Bermuda.
- Notably, Hurricane Franklin has shifted slightly closer to Bermuda and this shift emphasises the need for heightened awareness, preparedness, and safety.
- The public can anticipate deteriorating weather conditions including increased wind speeds as the afternoon progresses. Tropical storm force winds are extended over the Island. Wind timings from the latest update have cessation of tropical storm force winds on land at around 11.00 pm tonight and cessation of tropical storm force winds in the marine area around 2.00 am Thursday morning.
- Sustained winds are expected to be 30 – 40 knots with occasional gusts of 50 knots.
- Motorists should use extreme caution when traversing our roads during their afternoon commutes.
- Residents and visitors are urged to avoid swimming or engaging in any reckless water related activities prior to, during and after the passage of the storm.
- Government services and offices remain open, with the government dedicated to maintaining essential services throughout this period.
The Minister of National Security Michael Weeks said today, “As Hurricane Franklin approaches, I urge everyone to heed the safety guidance that is being shared. Stay informed by regularly monitoring updates from the Bermuda Weather Service and the Bermuda Government.”
The next weather update will be at 3.00 p.m. from the Bermuda Weather Service.
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