Belco crews began work this morning, restoring electricity to the 31,200 homes that lost power in the midst of Hurricane Gonzalo.

As of 9pm, power had been restored to some 13,022 homes with 41 circuits still down.

A company spokeswoman said: “Of course, this includes approximately 1,500 customers who did not have power restored after Tropical Storm Fay, as Gonzalo followed just a few days later.

“We do understand the frustration felt by those customers. Having back-to-back severe storms is a unique circumstance. Hurricane Gonzalo left Bermuda less than 24 hours ago, and we are doing our utmost to repair system damage and restore power to all customers as quickly as possible.”

She said the figures fluctuated over the course of the day, explaining that sometimes in order to energise a circuit, it was necessary to temporarily de-energise a circuit that has been on before bringing it back when the job is complete.

“Where possible, Belco is restoring power in a few areas,” the spokeswoman said. “ It is important to realise that damage is widespread, so restoration will not be quick or easy. We are also assessing damage and responding to reports of downed poles and other equipment, such as transformers.

“Again, there is a great deal of damage, so it will take time for crews to get to each location to make downed equipment safe. We appreciate the community’s patience, as we begin the restoration process.”

At 7am, Belco said they did not yet know how long full restoration would take.

“We will keep the country updated about progress,” a spokeswoman said. “We will speak with CARILEC today to get crews en route as soon as we know the status of the airport and causeway.

“As you open your door to go out today, please be very careful. Stay away from all downed lines and equipment — assume that everything is energised, that is to say, live.

“Do not go near any downed lines or equipment. Report them to BELCO and if at all possible include a photo and location information with your report to info@belco.bm. This will assist with damage assessment.

“Be safe, everyone. Please put safety above every other consideration today.”

At 9:00 PM, the approximate number of customers without power has reduced to 13,022, which is down from over 31,000 immediately after Hurricane Gonzalo. Of course, this includes approximately 1,500 customers who did not have power restored after Tropical Storm Fay, as Gonzalo followed just a few days later. We do understand the frustration felt by those customers. Having back-to-back severe storms is a unique circumstance. Hurricane Gonzalo left Bermuda less than 24 hours ago, and we are doing our utmost to repair system damage and restore power to all customers as quickly as possible.