The British Overseas Territory of Bermuda is weathering a severe battering from Hurricane Gabrielle, which made its presence felt with destructive force on Sunday. The powerful Category 3 storm brought a perilous combination of howling winds and intense rainfall, testing the island's famed resilience.
A Direct Hit from a Major Hurricane
Hurricane Gabrielle intensified rapidly into a major hurricane before its core passed directly over Bermuda. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported sustained winds of up to 125mph (205km/h), with even stronger gusts. The island experienced the storm's most dangerous quadrant, leading to significant power outages, downed trees, and coastal flooding.
Residents, who are well-versed in hurricane preparedness, had spent days securing properties and stocking up on essential supplies. The government opened emergency shelters, and a curfew was imposed to ensure public safety during the worst of the weather.
From Hurricane to Tropical Storm Narda
As Hurricane Gabrielle moves away from Bermuda, it is forecast to weaken into a tropical storm, at which point it will be reclassified as Tropical Storm Narda. However, the NHC has warned that the system is expected to re-intensify and could once again become a hurricane as it moves across the Atlantic.
The storm's path is being closely monitored, though current projections suggest it will curve northwards and pose no immediate threat to the UK mainland. The main concern for Bermuda now shifts to the aftermath, including assessing damage and restoring utilities.
Bermuda's Strict Building Codes Prove Their Worth
Bermuda is no stranger to hurricanes, and its stringent building codes, which mandate sturdy limestone or concrete construction, are designed to withstand such extreme weather events. These regulations are widely credited with minimising structural damage and protecting lives during past storms.
Initial reports indicate widespread flooding and debris on roads, but the full extent of the damage will become clearer as emergency crews can conduct thorough assessments in daylight. The island's infrastructure, including its hospital and emergency services, remained operational throughout the event.
The community now begins the process of cleanup and recovery, a familiar ritual for those living in this beautiful but storm-prone part of the Atlantic.
