The Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO), chaired by the Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, convened today, Wednesday 11 June, for a planning session as Bermuda officially enters the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs annually from 1 June to 30 November.

Minister Weeks stated, "The Government of Bermuda, through the EMO, is actively preparing for any threat this season may bring. Today's meeting confirms that all Government agencies are coordinating efforts to ensure readiness, and I want to assure the public that we are not leaving anything to chance."

Today's meeting included updates confirming that all EMO agencies and Government departments have completed or are finalising their hurricane preparedness measures.

The EMO also discussed the planned scenario-based tabletop exercise scheduled for 18 June to assess national response procedures.

A follow-up EMO meeting is set for 23 July, including a tabletop exercise debrief. The EMO stands ready to reconvene earlier if a developing storm requires immediate coordination.

This year’s season is expected to be above normal. According to the US National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes are predicted for the Atlantic.

These figures are above the long-term seasonal averages, due in part to record-warm sea surface temperatures and a weakening La Niña pattern.

The Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) has cautioned that even if the storm's centre is not directly over Bermuda, the Island can still experience significant impacts.

Minister Weeks said: "Residents must remain informed using trusted sources. The Bermuda Weather Service is the Island’s official authority for all storm forecasts and updates.

“Likewise, our Government Emergency Broadcast Station at 100.1 FM is the official source of EMO updates during storms, especially during a power outage. Every household should have a working battery-powered FM radio ready."

The EMO reminded the public of key preparation measures as part of today's discussions:

•  Create a family emergency plan and hold a discussion with loved ones about what to do during a storm.
•  Stock up on non-perishable food and water, and check in on the elderly and vulnerable.

For a complete list of recommended actions, residents are urged to visit the Government's official hurricane preparedness page at www.gov.bm/are-you-ready-hurricane-season.

Minister Weeks concluded: "Preparedness is not just a Government responsibility; it starts at home. We must all take proactive steps now to reduce our risks later."