The Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) executive met today to further assess Tropical Storm Philippe’s impact.
As of the Bermuda Weather Service advisory at 12 p.m. today, a Tropical Storm Warning remained in effect. Philippe was located around 410 nautical miles to the south of the Island, moving north at 10 knots (11 miles per hour).
The storm had maximum sustained winds of 45 knots (51 miles per hour) with gusts to 55 knots (63 miles per hour).
Its closest point of approach during the next 72 hours is expected to be 82 nautical miles to the west of Bermuda at 2 p.m. Friday, 6 October.
The public should be aware of the following:
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Schools: Bermuda public schools will be closed on Friday, 6 October, out of an abundance of caution and will re-open on Monday, 9 October.
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Causeway: The Causeway will remain open and will be closely monitored.
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Government services: Government offices will open on Friday as per normal.
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Emergency Shelter: The Emergency Shelter at Cedarbridge Academy will be open to any resident who needs it from 9 p.m. on Thursday, 5 October.
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Airport operations: The LF Wade International Airport will be open on Friday. Travellers are urged to contact their respective airlines to learn of any flight cancellations.
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Public transportation: Bus services will run normally on Friday. Ferries on Friday will be suspended, with the exception of the Pink Route, which will operate normally. The Disney cruise ship will depart today, as expected, at 5 p.m.
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Trash collection: Friday’s garbage collection will be deferred until Saturday for collection. Residents should refrain from putting out garbage Friday night.
Minister of National Security Michael Weeks, JP, MP, said: “The Emergency Measures Organisation has considered the conditions associated with Tropical Storm Philippe.
“We can expect increased winds and a wet day as a result of significant rainfall. Residents should ensure their preparations are complete by this evening.
“I know that people will want to be near the sea and out on the road this evening and Friday. However, I strongly urge against non-essential travel on our roads on Friday. Please exercise care and caution on the roads. If you don’t have to be on the roads on Friday, then please remain indoors.”
The public can expect to see unsettled weather conditions later today. And Philippe will bring high seas, long periods of swells and hazardous surf, including rip currents. People are strongly advised not to enter the water during this time. Lifeguards have suspended operations at Horseshoe Bay Beach.