Bermuda braces for arrival of Hurricane Melissa

Bermuda tourism businesses are bracing for Hurricane Melissa to pass the island after leaving a trail of devastation across Jamaica and Cuba.

The US National Hurricane Centre (NHC) said in its latest update: “Hurricane conditions are expected in Bermuda tonight, with tropical

storm conditions beginning later today. Preparations should be rushed to completion.”

A hurricane watch is in place for the island and the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) is “closely monitoring” Hurricane Melissa which is expected to pass to the west of the island on Thursday evening local time.

L F Wade International airport in the capital of Hamilton remains open and operating as normal at the moment. 

Hotels, transportation partners, and tourism businesses are following standard readiness procedures and remain operational. 

The Bermuda Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO), in partnership with government agencies, utilities, and community stakeholders, is actively preparing to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors.

Visitors currently on the island or planning upcoming travel are encouraged to stay informed and follow any guidance provided by their accommodation providers, airline partners and the EMO, according to the tourism authority.

“Bermuda is highly experienced in preparing for and managing storm activity, and the island has a strong track record of resilience thanks to rigorous building standards, well-established emergency protocols, and coordinated response teams,” the BTA noted.

The NHC said that any flooding across the Bahamas is expected to subside today. 

But it warned: “Flooding across Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola (Haiti) could persist for another few days.

“Follow advice of local officials as you may need to remain sheltered after the storm due to downed power lines and flooding.”