Be hurricane ready, urges national security minister
People are being urged not to let their guard down and prepare for hurricane season, which starts today.
This year, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted a 40 per cent chance of a near-normal season and a 30 per cent chance of a below-normal season.
The NOAA also predicts between 12 to 17 named storms with winds of at least 39mph or higher.
Of those storms, the organisation says, five to nine could develop into hurricanes containing winds of at least 74mph or higher.
The national security minister, Michael Weeks, said: “We must prepare for this hurricane season, and ensure our collective safety and resilience.
“While one may be tempted to welcome NOAA's outlook on this season, Bermuda residents should never let down their guards.
“Anything can happen, and we have learnt many lessons in the past about underestimating storms.”
Stay informed: stay tuned to local news, radio and official weather sources to stay informed about the latest updates, advisories and warnings. Regularly check the Bermuda Weather Service's website at www.weather.bm for accurate and up-to-date information
Develop an emergency plan: create a comprehensive family emergency plan that includes evacuation paths, predetermined meeting points and contact information for emergency services
Prepare an emergency kit: assemble a well-stocked emergency kit comprising essential supplies such as non-perishable food, drinking water, battery-operated radios, flashlights, extra batteries, a comprehensive first-aid kit, prescription medications, important documents, cash and personal hygiene items. Remember to include supplies for infants, elderly family members and pets
Protect your property: conduct a thorough assessment to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Trim back overhanging trees and shrubs, secure loose objects and consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows
Back up critical data: safeguard valuable documents, photographs and digital files by backing them up on external hard drives or secure cloud storage
Stock up on supplies: gather an ample supply of non-perishable food, bottled water and essential household items. Residents should aim to have sufficient provisions to sustain their household for at least three days in the event of power outages or limited access to services
Invest in an analogue radio: remember to tune in to the Emergency Radio Station at 100.1FM for all official announcements and storm-related updates
Mr Weeks added: “By being proactive, we can significantly lower risks and bolster our collective resilience during the Atlantic hurricane season. It only takes one storm to make it a busy season for Bermuda.“
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