Tropical Storm Colin is expected to come closer to the Island but is said to be a weaker storm than earlier predicted, according to the Bermuda Weather Service.

The storm — which is still considered a threat — is due to begin around noon and persist through Sunday morning with overcast skies, heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms.

Winds of up to 50 knots, almost 60 mph, are expected and the public is being urged to stock up on essential goods such as flashlights, non-perishable foods and water.

At presstime last night, TS Colin's closest point of approach was expected to be at 1 a.m. Sunday morning when it will pass 18 nautical miles to the west northwest.

Mark Guishard, Director of the Bermuda Weather Service said: "The story is that Colin will be coming closer to the island, but as a weaker tropical storm than previously forecast.

"So the forecast for tropical storm force winds affecting the island mainly late Saturday afternoon and night remains much the same as forecast earlier today."

Beaches along the South Shore were closed yesterday as the storm causes dangerous rip tides — and depending on the weather conditions they may not open again until Monday.

In a statement yesterday, Home Affairs Minister David Burch said the latest information from the Bermuda Weather Service indicated that the Island can expect tropical storm force winds through until Sunday morning.

"The onset of tropical storm force winds of 30 to 40 knots is expected Saturday afternoon. The onset of intermittent 50 knot winds are expected Saturday evening, from around 6 p.m., with the cessation of 40 to 50 knots at approximately 3 a.m. to 4 a.m. Sunday.

"The Causeway will be monitored to ensure the safety of motorists.

"The L.F. Wade International Airport is monitoring the situation and the public is urged to call their airline to make sure their flights are operating as normal.

"Cessation of tropical storm force winds is expected at approximately 6 a.m. Sunday morning," said Sen. Burch,

His statement added: "There is potential for higher gusts and heavy rainfall/thunderstorms anytime Saturday afternoon through the overnight period. There is also a small chance that Colin may see additional strengthening to a Category 1 Hurricane (64 knots or greater) in the next 24 hours.

"Residents are advised to check their emergency kits to be sure supplies are adequate.

"A typical emergency kit would include items such as flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, non-perishable foods, an ample water supply and disposable utensils.

"Additionally, those residents with boats should make certain that their vessels are properly secured to prevent damage. It is also recommended that residents tie down any loose outdoor furniture or potted plants to prevent undue damage."

Yesterday lifeguards at Horseshoe Bay shut down swimming to more than half the beach due to very dangerous rip currents in addition to flying the yellow flag discouraging weak swimmers from entering the water and others to exercise extreme care and caution while in or near the water.

The Parks Department closed Horseshoe Bay, John Smith's Bay, Clearwater, Turtle Beach and Long Bay. Coopers Island will be closed until Monday.

Should weather and resources allow the lifeguards will attempt to resume operations sometime on Sunday.

As of last night, no flights were cancelled from the LF Wade International Airport.

Various businesses will close early including Capital G Bank who will shut at Noon. Events were also postponed due to the storm including the Pink Party.

For more information on Tropical Storm Colin, residents can tune in to or log on to the following:

* Hurricane preparedness: www.emo.gov.bm

* Online weather updates: www.weather.bm

* Televised weather updates: CableVision Ch. 4 and WOW Ch. 100

* For The Public Forecast: Dial 977

* For The Current Observation: Dial 9771

* For The Marine Forecast Dial: 9772

* For Latest Warnings and Tropical Information: Dial 9773.