“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,” said Minister of National Security Michael Weeks, JP, MP, following an Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) meeting to assess the possible impact of Tropical Storm Franklin. According to the latest Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) 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 294 nautical miles to the southwest at 12.00 noon Monday, August 28, 2023.
As of last check, TS Franklin was located at approximately 650 nautical miles to the south of Bermuda moving east northeast at 4 knots with maximum winds of 45 knots guesting to 55 knots.
Minister Weeks added, “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.”
Those who are travelling on Monday and Tuesday are encouraged to liaise with their respective airlines for any updates or changes.
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.
To stay abreast of the latest weather forecast associated with Tropical Storm Franklin, visit www.weather.bm.