Residents were urged by the Minister of National Security to stay alert after the Emergency Measures Organisation met to consider the possible impact of Tropical Storm Franklin.

Michael Weeks added that Monday — when the weather system is forecast to pass Bermuda as a hurricane — was expected to be "business as usual“ but emergency crews remained mobilised in case they were needed

He said: “At this time, it appears that Bermuda will be spared the worst of Franklin. However, I urge residents to stay alert and to monitor weather and official updates over the weekend.

A government spokeswoman explained: “According to the latest Bermuda Weather Service forecast, Franklin is expected to strengthen into a Category 2 hurricane as it passes by the southwest of the island.

“The BWS notes that TS Franklin remains a threat to the island, with its closest point of approach forecast to be 340 miles to the southwest at noon Monday, August 28, 2023.”

She added that, at the most recent check, the storm was about 750 miles south of Bermuda moving east-northeast at about 5mph with maximum winds of 52mph guesting to 63mph.

Mr Weeks said: “I was thankful to hear that Franklin is forecast to have minimum impact on the island.

“At this time, we don’t expect any changes to normal operations on the island and we expect Monday to be business as usual.

“Our emergency personnel remain mobilised should the need arise.

“Based on the current forecast, we can expect to see some rain over the weekend into Monday and Tuesday.”

The government spokeswoman advised anyone with overseas travel plans for Monday or Tuesday to liaise with their airlines for any updates or changes.

She said: “Turning to the beaches, it’s expected that this storm will result in above-normal surf conditions.

“Lifeguards from the Department of Parks have been busy over the past 48 hours warning swimmers at Horseshoe Bay about the presence of rip currents due to the approaching storm.

“Currently, a yellow flag, indicating a medium risk of hazard for the average swimmer, is flying at Horseshoe Bay.

“However, lifeguards emphasise that this warning doesn’t mean that swimming is safe as there are potential dangers associated with rip currents.

“The public is urged to use caution in the interest of safety.”