L.F. Wade International Airport’s problems with rain leakage have been exacerbated since Hurricane Nicole hit Bermuda, a spokesman has confirmed.

The Royal Gazette contacted the airport after images appeared on social media depicting the facility’s embattled infrastructure.

One picture obtained by this newspaper shows pools of rainwater on the terminal floor beneath damaged ceiling panels.

Another shows the US departures area after last week’s hurricane, whose roof was so badly damaged that a seating section was left exposed to open air. The area has since been patched up by staff, although it is more susceptible to rain than previously. Following yesterday morning’s rainfall, the airport spokesman said that leak-prone areas of the terminal had been “amplified” by the hurricane, and that staff had been mopping up pools of rainwater and using bins to collect the drips.

“It’s not the most sightly thing, and it’s something we hate to have to do,” he said.

“It’s not ideal. That’s not the image we want to have, not only for our visitors but for residents as well.

“Unfortunately the condition of the building is such that whenever there’s rain, especially torrential downpours, there will be leaks throughout the terminal building. It’s an ongoing issue.”

Bob Richards, the Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, is overseeing the controversial $250 million redevelopment of the airport.

When asked if the leakages were indicative of the overall state of the building, he said: “Absolutely. It’s an ageing facility, and this is what happens.”

Mr Richards extended his gratitude to airport workers for “rolling up their sleeves to keep the place going, in spite of working under difficult circumstances”.