The outer bands of Hurricane Franklin were affecting Bermuda on Wednesday causing dangerous surf and rip current conditions along the eastern seaboard.
“As Hurricane Franklin approaches, I urge everyone to heed the safety guidance that is being shared. Stay informed by regularly monitoring updates from the Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) and the Bermuda Government,” said National Security Minister, Michael Weeks.
The BWS in its latest bulletin said that Hurricane Franklin, with maximum sustained winds of nearly 105 miles per hour (mph), closest point of approach is forecast to be 122 miles to the north, northwest at approximately 5.00 pm (local time) on Wednesday.
“So it’s got a tiny bit closer and has speeded up,” the BWS said, adding “However, this system may move closer to Bermuda after this time period depending upon its track.”
The government has issued a statement urging motorists to exercise extreme caution when traversing the roads during their afternoon commutes and has told residents and visitors “to avoid swimming or engaging in any reckless water-related activities prior to, during, and after the passage of the storm.
“Government services and offices remain open, with the government dedicated to maintaining essential services throughout this period,” the statement said.
The Bermuda College said it will close at 4:30 pm “to allow commuting students and employees sufficient time to get home safely.
“The College campus community is advised to check emails, media, and/or their emergency notification platform for updates, if/as warranted,” it added.
The Miami-based National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that Hurricane Franklin is about 160 miles northwest of the British Overseas Territory.
It said a Tropical Storm Warning is in effect and that the center of Hurricane Franklin is moving towards the northeast near 13 mph.
“A gradual turn towards the east-northeast is expected later today or tonight, with a
slightly faster east-northeastward motion through Friday. On the forecast track, the center of Franklin is expected to pass to the northwest of Bermuda today.”
It said that there would be gradual weakening of the hurricane over the next several days.
“Life-threatening surf and rip currents generated by Franklin are affecting Bermuda and the east coast of the United States. These conditions are expected to continue during the next couple of days,” the NHC added.
Source- CMC
