Hamilton,
Bermuda
Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited (BELCO) today advised residents that it is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Gabrielle’s development.
Tropical Storm Gabrielle is currently travelling west-northwesterly across the Atlantic, however, the forecast track has changed several times over the last 48 hours.
BELCO’s Crisis Management Team (CMT) has met to review all preparation protocols and in the event that the storm does impact the island, BELCO stands ready to respond.
BELCO’s Hurricane Plan has been enacted to coordinate preparations ahead of any potential impacts from Tropical Storm Gabrielle. Through this process, critical spares are strategically placed in the western and eastern ends of the island and crew assignments are developed to ensure rapid response.
Should Bermuda be impacted by Gabrielle, and it results in power outages, restoration crews will start work as soon as it is declared safe to do so and will continue to work until every customer has had power restored.
The public can get storm preparedness advice, safety tips and updates on any storm-related outages on BELCO’s website and social media pages, inclusive of Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
While the time for arranging a scheduled power outage with BELCO for tree trimming prior to any potential impacts from Gabrielle has passed, customers are reminded that the most important action residents can take to prepare is to ensure that trees on their property are clear of power lines. Ensuring that vegetation on private property remains 10 feet away from power lines is the sole responsibility of property owners. Property owners can call (295-5111) or email () three weeks in advance to schedule a power shutdown in order to trim safely.
BELCO President Wayne Caines said: “BELCO is monitoring the development of tropical storm Gabrielle carefully and taking the appropriate action to be prepared should the storm impact Bermuda. We have had several threats from storms this season but thankfully we have been spared direct impacts. I urge residents to not let their guard down and prepare now for potential storm conditions. I encourage all residents and businesses in Bermuda to review their own hurricane safety plans as well as tips and advice on the BELCO website and social media channels to keep their family and property safe should we be impacted by this storm next week.”