Storm Basics
A "hurricane" is the most severe category of the meteorological phenomenon known
as the "tropical cyclone". Tropical cyclones are low-pressure systems that
usually originate in areas of warm ocean water, like the tropics. These
anticlockwise rotating systems present multiple threats, including high winds,
thunderstorms, embedded tornadoes, flooding from rain and storm surge as well as
battering wave action.”
Tropical cyclones are
categorised based on their wind speeds:
Tropical depression
38 mph (33 knots) or less
Tropical storm 39-73 mph (34-63 knots)
Hurricane 74 mph (64 knots) or greater
Public Safety
Advisories
Bermuda’s Emergency Measures
Organization issues a series of advisories when a tropical storm or hurricane
enters the area. Following maritime tradition, each phase is identified by a
flag; rectangles for a hurricane, triangles for a tropical storm.
Potential Threat
The centre of a tropical system
is forecast to come within 400 nautical miles of Bermuda within 72 hours.
Threat
A tropical storm or hurricane
system could strike within 72 hours.
Watch
A ‘Watch’ is issued when a
tropical storm or hurricane could strike within 36 hours.
Warning
A ‘Warning’ is issued when the
centre of a tropical storm or hurricane could strike within 24 hours. It remains
in effect until the storm has passed or is no longer a threat.
All Clear
An ‘All Clear’ means the storm is
no longer a threat, but residents know that this doesn’t mean the danger is
past. Immediately after a tropical storm/hurricane there may be remaining storm
surge. Electrical and gas lines, sewage systems and water pipes may have been
damaged. Broken glass, nails, damaged power lines, fallen trees and other debris
make clean up a challenge. The “All Clear” refers only to the heightened wind
conditions.
Search and rescue
Rescue teams from the following
agencies undertake tasks assigned by the committees responsible for search and
rescue: from government, the police and fire services, Works and Engineering,
and the Bermuda Regiment.