Tropical storm warning in force as hurricane expected to pass to the east
A tropical storm warning is now in effect, the Bermuda Weather Service said this morning.
Hurricane Sam, a major storm, is still tracking to the east of the island.
The Bermuda Weather Service said Sam’s closest point of approach to Bermuda was forecast to be 220 miles to the east at 11pm tonight.
Forecasters warned: “However, this system may move closer to Bermuda after this time period depending upon its track.”
A Tropical Storm warning remained in force and winds could reach tropical storm strength on Friday night into early Saturday morning.
The public were reminded to “remain vigilant” as the Minister of National Security warned a significant surge was expected off the island when Hurricane Sam passes.
Renée Ming said that the Emergency Measures Organisation continued to follow the storm’s path.
A Government spokeswoman said that the minister had chaired an EMO meeting “where all partner agencies confirmed that they were storm ready and prepared to mobilise should the need arise”.
Ms Ming said: “We’re not anticipating Hurricane Sam to significantly impact Bermuda.
“Bermuda can possibly experience winds reaching tropical storm strength starting on Friday night into early Saturday morning.
She added that winds were not expected to hit 50 knots – just over 57mph.
“The island can expect to experience significant surge and wave activity with the passage of this storm.”
The spokeswoman said there would be “waves offshore 20 feet Friday night through Saturday morning” and “long swells continuing to build with dangerous surf on the south shore”.
Winds overnight were predicted to be northerly with 28-40mph gusts and 51.7mph in exposed or elevated areas and in the eastern marine area.
Ms Ming added: “As I shared on Tuesday, Bermuda is no stranger to serious storms.
“As a country, we’ve been successful in managing through hurricanes by being ready and prepared.
“As predicted, this continues to be a very busy storm season and it's important that our residents and businesses remain vigilant and storm ready.
“As needed, we will provide further updates as Hurricane Sam’s track progresses.”
Visit https://www.weather.bm for the latest updates.
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