Tropical storm will hit Bermuda directly, says weather service
Tropical Storm Philippe is now expected to make a direct hit on the island, according to the Bermuda Weather Service.
According to the centre’s latest advisory, issued at 6pm yesterday, the eye of Philippe will pass within 31 nautical miles — or “directly over the island” — approaching from the west-northwest on Friday at noon.
It is at present located 585 nautical miles south of Bermuda, packing tropical storm winds.
The BWS added that its track could change, bringing it even closer to the island.
A tropical warning is now in effect for Bermuda.
According to a tracking graphic compiled by the US National Hurricane Centre, Philippe could score a direct hit by 2pm on Friday. Earlier, the closest point of approach was 4pm.
It had been forecast that the storm could strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane but the latest BWS tracking map shows it as a tropical storm when it reaches Bermuda.
The BWS’s latest advisory issued by National Hurricane Centre keeps Philippe as a tropical storm, with winds of 35 knots, then possibly strengthening slightly as a strong tropical storm, with winds of 50 knots, later on Friday after the centre passes Bermuda.
The BWS said: “On Friday, easterly 25kt to 35kt winds increase possibly up to 50kt with gusts to 65kt while veering towards the southwest. Instability indices increase during the period with the possibility for thunderstorms later on Thursday into Friday.
“Seas ramp up in tandem with increasing winds associated with Philippe, with seas becoming rough to very rough with large swells and hazardous rip currents. It should be noted that during the passage of the TS centre, winds are likely to drop light to moderate for a time on Friday afternoon. When the TS warning gets cancelled, a small-craft warning will then be issued in its place.
“A TS warning should remain active for most of the short-term period before being cancelled later Friday night or early Saturday. Also, a thunderstorm advisory may be required.”
The Emergency Measures Organisation met today to assess the threat posed by the storm.
Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, stressed the importance of being prepared, reminding residents that storms can be unpredictable, especially in their intensity and impact on the community.
Mr Weeks said: "I urge all residents to take Tropical Storm Philippe seriously. Storms of this nature can bring unforeseen challenges, and we must prepare accordingly. Please be prepared by Thursday evening, secure your homes and stay informed.”
• Tropical storm watch: a tropical storm warning is in effect for Bermuda. Tropical Storm Philippe continues to pose a significant threat to our island, and it is expected to pass directly over us on Friday.
• Closest point of approach: within the next 72 hours, Philippe is projected to come within 31 nautical miles of Bermuda at noon on Friday.
• Location and movement: as of the latest 6pm advisory from the Bermuda Weather Service, Philippe is 585 nautical miles south of Bermuda, moving north at 11 miles per hour. It has maximum sustained winds of 40mph, gusting to 51mph.
• Mariners and swimmers caution: we strongly urge mariners to take all necessary precautions for rough seas on Friday. Additionally, we advise all swimmers to stay away from the water during this time for your safety.
• EMO meeting: the EMO will convene again tomorrow afternoon, when substantive decisions regarding the storm's impact will be made. Following the EMO meeting, the public is urged to stay vigilant and listen for tomorrow's advisory.
Mr Weeks added: "We understand the concerns of our community and your safety is our top priority. Please take this opportunity to review your family emergency plan, secure outdoor objects and gather essential supplies.
"Stay informed through official channels and continue to monitor updates from the Bermuda Weather Service, Bermuda’s official weather authority.”
Belco also issued an advisory for property owners in advance of the storm’s approach. The energy firm’s Crisis Management Team has been convened to co-ordinate preparations ahead of possible impacts and will continue to meet frequently until the storm has passed.
• Safety first: always assume a downed wire is live. Never approach a downed wire, try to move it or touch it.
• Reporting outages: customers with AMI meters will already be logged as having an outage. Other customers are asked not to call to report an outage until Belco has asked you to do so.
• Appliances: before the onset of high winds, ensure you unplug any appliances, electronics or other sensitive equipment.
Belco reminded residents that the most important action they can take to prepare is to ensure trees on their property are clear of power lines.
“During the high winds from the three previous storms impacting Bermuda this season, Hurricane Franklin, Tropical Storm Idalia and Hurricane Lee, most outages were caused by foliage and loose debris hitting power lines. Ensuring that trees on private property remain ten feet away from power lines is the sole responsibility of property owners.”
Property owners can call 295-5111 or e-mail treetrimming@belco.bm three weeks in advance to schedule a power shutdown for safe trimming.
If there are power outages as a result of the storm, restoration crews start work as soon as it is declared safe to do so.
The public can receive storm preparedness advice and updates on any outages on Belco’s website and social media pages on Facebook and X.
Wayne Caines, the Belco president, said: “Our team at Belco are well prepared and closely monitoring the storm and our Crisis Management Team will be meeting frequently until the threat has passed.
“Once the storm has passed, Belco staff certainly appreciate the patience and understanding of the public as we work to get everyone’s power restored as quickly and safely as possible.”
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