Bermuda: Tropical Storm Paulette forecast to bring hazardous conditions from September 13

Event

Tropical Storm Paulette is expected to strengthen to a hurricane-force storm before bringing hazardous weather and sea conditions to Bermuda from Sunday evening, September 13. In its latest update on the storm issued at 21:00 (UTC) on Saturday, September 12, the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported Tropical Storm Paulette as being located around 745km (460 miles) southeast of Bermuda moving northwest at 24km/h (15mph) and is expected to hit the island on Sunday night or early on Monday morning, September 14. Although the storm's 113km/h (70mph) maximum sustained wind speed is currently below the 120km/h (74mph) hurricane threshold, the storm is expected to strengthen to a category one hurricane before reaching Bermuda, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and a dangerous storm surge.

Wind damage, coastal flooding, and dangerous sea conditions are expected during the passing of the storm, and significant disruptions to transportation, business, and utilities are likely in the near term.

Context

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from late May through to the end of November, with activity typically peaking in late August and early September. Numerous tropical storms form in the Atlantic Ocean during this period, with most affecting the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the east coast of the United States. Although communities in the region are generally well prepared for adverse weather conditions during the hurricane season, severe storms bring a significant risk of flooding and infrastructural damage.

Organized tropical activity tends to peak in August and September. Storms tend to flood sections of highways and cause dirt-based roads to become temporarily impassable. More organized systems, depending on intensity, can prove catastrophic in terms of tidal surge, wind damage, flooding, and mudslides.

Advice

Those in Bermuda are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.