“We must prepare for this hurricane season, and ensure our collective safety and resilience,” said Minister of National Security Michael Weeks ahead of the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season on Thursday, 1 June.
The Atlantic hurricane season begins on 1 June and ends on 30 November. This year, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted a 40 percent chance of a near-normal season and a 30 percent chance of a below-normal season.
NOAA also predicts between 12-17 named storms with winds of at least 39 miles per hour (34 knots) or higher.
Of those storms, the organisation predicts that 5 to 9 could develop into hurricanes containing winds of at least 74 miles per hour (64 knots) or higher.
Minister Weeks added: “While one may be tempted to welcome NOAA’s outlook on this season, Bermuda residents should never let down their guards.
“Anything can happen, and we have learned many lessons in the past about underestimating storms.”
The Ministry is pleased to announce that the public can listen live to the Government’s 100.1 FM Emergency Radio Station for the first time via a 24/7 audio stream. The link to the stream can be found at the bottom of the page of the Government Portal.
With the official start of the hurricane season, individuals and families must take proactive measures to monitor storms and be prepared for their impacts and aftermath.
In close collaboration with the Bermuda Weather Service, the Ministry of National Security diligently monitors weather patterns and is committed to providing timely updates and alerts to the public.
By following these essential steps, residents can enhance their readiness and build resilience during this critical period:
- Stay Informed: Stay tuned to local news, radio, and official weather sources to stay informed about the latest updates, advisories, and warnings. Regularly check the Bermuda Weather Service’s website at www.weather.bm for accurate and up-to-date information. Remember that the Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) is the official source of all weather-related information.
- Develop an emergency plan: Create a comprehensive family emergency plan that includes evacuation paths, pre-determined meeting points, and contact information for emergency services.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble a well-stocked emergency kit comprising essential supplies such as non-perishable food, drinking water, battery-operated radios, flashlights, extra batteries, a comprehensive first aid kit, prescription medications, important documents, cash, and personal hygiene items. Remember to include supplies for infants, elderly family members, and pets.
- Protect your property: Conduct a thorough assessment to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Trim back overhanging trees and shrubs, secure loose objects, and consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows.
- Backup critical data: Safeguard valuable documents, photographs, and digital files by backing them up on external hard drives or secure cloud storage.
- Stock up on supplies: Gather an ample supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential household items. Residents should aim to have sufficient provisions to sustain their household for at least three days in the event of power outages or limited access to services.
- Please take note of the Government’s Emergency Shelter: The Emergency Measures Organisation will announce the location and opening time of the shelter before the arrival of a significant storm for any person or family who requires it.
- Invest in an analogue radio: Remember to tune in to the Emergency Radio Station at 100.1fm for all official announcements and storm-related updates.
Minister Weeks added: “By being proactive, we can significantly lower risks and bolster our collective resilience during the Atlantic hurricane season.
It only takes one storm to make it a busy season for Bermuda.”
For an explanation of tropical storms and hurricanes or detailed information on how to prepare for them, visit this website on the Bermuda Government portal.
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