People should not be complacent about Hurricane Larry and need to prepare for tropical storm force winds, the Minister of National Security said today.

Renee Ming was speaking after chairing a meeting of the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) which met today and yesterday.

“Today all relevant agencies met again to assess the latest forecast and track of Hurricane Larry.

“At the moment the Bermuda Weather Service advised that Larry’s track is currently looking favourable for Bermuda, with the hurricane predicted to pass well to our east on Thursday. At this stage, we do not anticipate any interruptions of Government services.

“However, from a storm preparation stand point, we should not become complacent. We are advising residents to prepare for possible tropical storm force winds on Thursday and expect increasing swells along the south shore.

“To be clear our public safety message is that there will be dangerous conditions for swimming along south shore beaches. So we are urging the public to use caution and common sense.

“The EMO will meet again tomorrow morning. We will continue to provide further updates if Hurricane Larry's track changes.”

The Minister also encouraged people to make sure they are ready for a storm.

She said residents should have the necessary supplies and should check their property for loose debris and ensure their shutters are in good working order.

Private sector businesses are also advised to check their buildings and review their hurricane plans, the Minister said.

The virtual meeting of the EMO saw in attendance representatives from key EMO agencies such as the Bermuda Weather Service, Royal Bermuda Regiment, Bermuda Police Service, Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service, Belco, Parks and Public Works.

For the latest updates regarding this storm system, residents can visit the Bermuda Weather Service website.