Hurricane Epsilon is expected to pass more than 200 miles from the island – but the public was warned to be on the alert.

The Category 1 hurricane was expected to make its closest point of approach at 2am on Friday, about 203 miles to the east of the island.

The Bermuda Weather Service has already issued a Tropical Storm Watch.

The BWS 11.30am update said: “Intensifying showers with tropical storm force wind will intermittently occur into Friday then ease thereafter as Epsilon exits to our north.

“Hazardous seas and surf can be expected over the next several days.”

The US-based National Hurricane Centre said at noon the storm was still 405 miles east-southeast of Bermuda and moving west-northwest at 12mph.

The NHC said: “A turn towards the northwest is expected tonight, followed by a turn towards the north by tomorrow night.

“On the forecast track, the centre of Epsilon is forecast to make its closest approach to Bermuda tomorrow afternoon or evening.

“Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 90mph with higher gusts. Some additional strengthening is possible today.”

Hurricane force winds have been recorded 25 miles from the centre of the storm, while tropical storm force winds extend up to 435 miles – mostly to the north of the hurricane’s eye.