GONZALO: Aftermath in Bermuda / New Foundland

[cycloneye]

HURRICANE GONZALO TROPICAL CYCLONE UPDATE
NWS NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL AL082014
900 PM AST FRI OCT 17 2014

...900 PM POSITION UPDATE...
...LARGE EYE OF DANGEROUS HURRICANE GONZALO OVER BERMUDA...

AT APPROXIMATELY 830 PM AST...0030 UTC...THE CENTER OF THE LARGE EYE
OF HURRICANE GONZALO MADE LANDFALL ALONG THE SOUTH-CENTRAL COAST OF
BERMUDA...BASED ON DATA FROM THE BERMUDA RADAR...ISLAND SURFACE
OBSERVATIONS...AND REPORTS FROM AN AMATEUR RADIO OPERATOR LOCATED
IN DEVONSHIRE PARISH BERMUDA.

DURING THE PAST HOUR...THE BERMUDA AIRPORT REPORTED A SUSTAINED WIND
OF 74 MPH...119 KM/H AND A GUST TO 96 MPH...154 KM/H BEFORE THE
NORTHEASTERN PORTION OF THE EYE MOVED OVER THE AIRPORT.

SUMMARY OF 900 PM AST...0100 UTC...INFORMATION
--------------------------------------------------
LOCATION...32.3N 64.8W
ABOUT 0 MI...0 KM SSW OF BERMUDA
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...110 MPH...175 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...NNE OR 030 DEGREES AT 16 MPH...26 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...951 MB...28.08 INCHES

$$
FORECASTER STEWART

[cycloneye]

HURRICANE GONZALO TROPICAL CYCLONE UPDATE
NWS NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL AL082014
1000 PM AST FRI OCT 17 2014

...1000 PM POSITION UPDATE...
...CENTER OF LARGE EYE OF DANGEROUS HURRICANE GONZALO MOVING NORTH
OF BERMUDA...

DURING THE PAST HOUR...WINDS AT THE BERMUDA AIRPORT ON THE
NORTHEASTERN END OF THE ISLAND HAVE SWITCHED TO A WESTERLY
DIRECTION WITH SUSTAINED WINDS OF 44 MPH...70 KM/H AND A GUST TO
60 MPH...96 KM/H.

DURING THE PAST HOUR...WINDS AT AN ELEVATED OBSERVING SITE AT
COMMISSIONER'S POINT ON THE SOUTHWESTERN PORTION OF BERMUDA HAVE
SWITCHED TO A NORTHERLY DIRECTION WITH SUSTAINED WINDS OF 68 MPH...
110 KM/H AND A GUST TO 90 MPH...144 KM/H.

SUMMARY OF 1000 PM AST...0200 UTC...INFORMATION
--------------------------------------------------
LOCATION...32.4N 64.7W
ABOUT 10 MI...15 KM NE OF BERMUDA
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...110 MPH...175 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...NNE OR 030 DEGREES AT 16 MPH...26 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...951 MB...28.08 INCHES

$$
FORECASTER STEWART

[cycloneye]

BULLETIN
HURRICANE GONZALO ADVISORY NUMBER 23
NWS NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL AL082014
1100 PM AST FRI OCT 17 2014

...LARGE EYE OF DANGEROUS HURRICANE GONZALO MOVING AWAY FROM
BERMUDA...
...DAMAGING WINDS AND A LIFE-THREATENING STORM SURGE OCCURRING
AGAIN...


SUMMARY OF 1100 PM AST...0300 UTC...INFORMATION
-----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...32.7N 64.5W
ABOUT 35 MI...55 KM NNE OF BERMUDA
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...110 MPH...175 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...NNE OR 30 DEGREES AT 16 MPH...26 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...951 MB...28.09 INCHES

[cycloneye]

This morning [Oct 18] Bermuda begins the momentous task of cleaning up after Hurricane Gonzalo, with the storm having knocked out power for the majority of the island.

7.16am: BELCO said, “As soon as we have first light, BELCO will begin the task of assessing damage and beginning restoration. At this time, we cannot say how long restoration will take, but we will keep the country updated about progress. We will speak with CARILEC today to get crews en route, as soon as we know the status of the airport and causeway.

“As you open your door to go out today, please be very careful. Stay away from all downed lines and equipment — assume that everything is energized, that is to say, ‘live’. Do not go near any downed lines or equipment. Report them to BELCO and if at all possible include a photo and location information with your report to info@belco.bm. This will assist with damage assessment.

“Be safe, everyone. Please put safety above every other consideration today.”

http://bernews.com/

[cycloneye]

With Hurricane Gonzalo making its way northeast of Bermuda, the task of restoring Bermuda will soon get underway, and many people will be hoping the Causeway was able to withstand the brunt of the hurricane force winds.

The Causeway was closed just before 11am yesterday, and will be re-opened after examination. Police Commissioner Michael DeSilva previously explained that after the storm, the Causeway has to be examined by structural engineers to make sure that underneath the Causeway has not been damaged.

“Once the Causeway closes, we cannot tell you what time it will open up because it is subject to the conditions abating and then an inspection after that,” Commissioner DeSilva said.

http://bernews.com/2014/10/photos-cause ... e-gonzalo/

[cycloneye]

Here are some photos of damage.The good news is that so far no deaths or injuries have been reported.





More photos here

http://bernews.com/2014/10/photos-morni ... e-gonzalo/

[cycloneye]

Update 8.52am: BF&M will be open at 9.00am to accept Hurricane Gonzalo claims. Call 295-5566.

Update 9.42am: BELCO has swung into action, we had 30,700 customers out a few hours ago, and they have got that down to 28,850 by 9.30am — bringing close to 2000 customers back already — however they do warn damage is widespread, so restoration will not be easy.

BELCO said, “Where possible, BELCO is restoring power in a few areas. It is important to realize that damage is widespread, so restoration will not be quick or easy. We are also assessing damage and responding to reports of downed poles and other equipment, such as transformers. Again, there is a great deal of damage, so it will take time for crews to get to each location to make downed equipment safe. We appreciate the community’s patience, as we begin the restoration process.

“Currently, power has been restored to some customers — at this hour approximately 28,850 customers are without power (numbers are rounded) with the distribution as follows:
West – 10,080
Central – 10,870
East – 7,050
City of Hamilton – 850

http://bernews.com/2014/10/live-updates ... t-gonzalo/

[Sanibel]

Can't get the Port Bermuda Cam to work.

[cycloneye]

Breaking News: Great news!!

Good News: Police confirm there was no loss of life, and said early reports from the hospital indicate that while there were minor storm-related injuries, there were no critical injuries due to Gonzalo

http://bernews.com/2014/10/live-blog-up ... storm-fay/

[cycloneye]

Can't get the Port Bermuda Cam to work.

I also can't see it so they may be fixing it and return to work soon.

[Gustywind]

Update 8.52am: BF&M will be open at 9.00am to accept Hurricane Gonzalo claims. Call 295-5566.

Update 9.42am: BELCO has swung into action, we had 30,700 customers out a few hours ago, and they have got that down to 28,850 by 9.30am — bringing close to 2000 customers back already — however they do warn damage is widespread, so restoration will not be easy.

BELCO said, “Where possible, BELCO is restoring power in a few areas. It is important to realize that damage is widespread, so restoration will not be quick or easy. We are also assessing damage and responding to reports of downed poles and other equipment, such as transformers. Again, there is a great deal of damage, so it will take time for crews to get to each location to make downed equipment safe. We appreciate the community’s patience, as we begin the restoration process.

“Currently, power has been restored to some customers — at this hour approximately 28,850 customers are without power (numbers are rounded) with the distribution as follows:
West – 10,080
Central – 10,870
East – 7,050
City of Hamilton – 850

http://bernews.com/2014/10/live-updates ... t-gonzalo/

Excellent news glad to see that as Gonzalo's trip is over ( i hope!), and that's enough for now

[cycloneye]

Here are expressions by Premier Michael Dunkley.

“Bruised but unbowed..” said Premier Michael Dunkley today describing the effects on Bermuda after a direct hit from Hurricane Gonzalo.



“The EMO met at 8am this morning and we are beginning the assessment of the damage sustained across the Island and the work to restore Bermuda has already begun. Roads are being cleared, buildings are being made safe and we are working with BELCO to assist in restoring power to the numerous affected areas of the Island.”



Following the meeting of the EMO the Premier indicated that in this assessment phase it was important that all agencies be left to do their work and asked for the cooperation of all residents. “I cannot stress enough how important it is for everyone to stay off the roads and out of the way of the men and women who are working very hard to clear roads and clean up Bermuda.”



Teams from all agencies have fanned out across the Island and the restoration effort is expected to be assisted by helicopter reconnaissance provided from HMS Argyll which travelled behind the storm and is now within flying distance of Bermuda. The Premier said: “A number of our overseas friends especially the United States and the UK have quickly offered assistance to us and we are very grateful. The expertise that they offer will be put to best use as soon as we have completed the assessment of the priority of work required.”



The Premier concluded: “The EMO will meet again this afternoon. At that time we will have better information on where things stand and we will be able to inform the public about public transportation, the airport and the Causeway. Make no mistake, this was a dangerous hurricane but Bermuda today is dealing with property damage, blocked roads and a loss of electricity; all things that can be replaced and restored. Thankfully, there has been no loss of life and for that we must give thanks.”

[cycloneye]

15 minutes ago

KEMH: BHB confirms that despite some structural damage, patient care was not compromised and all patients and staff were safe throughout the storm.

There was damage to the roof of the Continuing Care Unit (CCU) building and Montrose Cottage, and some flooding in the KEMH General Wing and Acute Care Wing (ACW). There were some minor structural damage to the glass in the new patient garden and solar panels on the roof in the ACW, but no services were interrupted. There are no major issues to report from the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute.

25 CCU residents were relocated to the vacated old Emergency area, and 13 were moved from their rooms to the CCU Activities Room for safety, where they were settled for the rest of the night. No other patients had to be moved.

All issues throughout the storm and after are being dealt with by on-site teams, clinical staff and management.
A detailed assessment of all areas is now being undertaken. Cleanup and maintenance of all impacted areas is underway.

BHB would like to remind residents to take great care as they manage their properties and help out in their neighbourhoods to avoid injuries and potential life threatening situations with downed wires and trees.

[cycloneye]

21 minutes ago

BELCO: At 12:30 PM, approximately 25,410 customers without power, and a total 45 circuits are still out, down from 66 when Hurricane Gonzalo ended.

Central= 10240
City = 850
East = 6230
West = 8070

[cycloneye]

n hour ago

Logic: – Logic Communications today reported that their core networks remained operational throughout Hurricane Gonzalo with no loss of service for wired Internet service customers. Although Logic’s Internet service remains operational, service to customers is dependent on their access provider’s (CableVision or BTC) service and on the restoration of power to their homes.

The wireless network sustained severe damage with 67% of base stations damaged by the hurricane. Approximately 50% of wireless customers are without Internet service at this time; however, this represents less than 1% of all Logic Internet customers. As soon as it is safe to do so, the Logic engineering team will be out repairing the damaged base stations to restore wireless service as soon as possible.

Logic’s customer service centre on Church Street and customer service desk at 296-9600 will be open as usual on Monday, October 20 at 8:30am, ready to serve customers.

Vicki Coelho, Chief Executive Officer, Logic, says: “Logic’s robust network was able to withstand the impact of Hurricane Gonzalo. Our customers can stay up to date with news, and stay connected to loved ones both here and abroad. Our wireless network did sustain severe damage and Logic’s engineers will work hard to restore service as soon as possible. We ask for your patience and apologize if you have been impacted by the disruption in service. We are thankful that there was no loss of life and are incredibly proud of the spirit of cooperation amongst all Bermuda residents in dealing with the aftermath of the storm.”

[cycloneye]

12 minutes ago

TBI is stepping up to assist during this post-hurricane time, opening up all their WiFiZone Hotspots to the public – for free — for the next few days.

The company has over 30 hotspots from east to west including Town Square, Destination St. George’s [Visitors Center], Pennos Wharf, Police Officers Recreation Club, Strykz Bowling Lounge, Especially For You Laundry, Pizza House Southside, Pizza House Shelley Bay, Bermuda Aquarium [Azu Beastro], Police Officers Recreation Club, Dandelion Cafe [Washington Mall], Grand Cafe, Buzz Bakery Lane, Hamilton Visitors Information Center, Primes Place, The Botanical Gardens, Warwick Esso and more.

The company said, “In the wake of Hurricane Gonzalo, all TBI WiFiZone Hotspots will be free to the public for the next few days. For an island-wide list of Hotspots, including Dockyard, Hamilton, and St. Georges, go here on our website.

The company noted that since hotspots are electricity dependent there may be a few outages, so the will make a full assessment and update accordingly.

[cycloneye]

I guess the name will be Gonzalo.

21 minutes ago

KEMH confirm we have one hurricane baby.... a 5 lb 2oz boy born at 7.15pm last night.

[cycloneye]

Here is a summary of how are things in Bermuda as of 7 PM AST.

Weather conditions have abated, but there is damage island-wide from Gonzalo
•At 6pm approximately 18,685 customers without power....12,000 been restored so far as we had 30,700 out at peak of storm. BELCO said some 70 poles down, and great deal of work to be done.
•Transportation: Causeway is open, airport likely to open on Sunday afternoon, ferries to operate on Sunday, no word on buses yet as routes being assessed
•Police confirm no loss of life or serious injuries during storm
•TBI opens up all their WiFiZone Hotspots to the public for free for the next few days.

[cycloneye]

Summary of Aftermath in Bermuda as of 8:30 AM AST.

Summary as of Sun Oct 19 - 8.30am:



•Good News: Police confirm no loss of life or serious injuries during the storm, and we have a hurricane baby...with a baby boy born during the height of the storm
•BELCO: At 11:30pm Saturday, 11,904 customers without power, down from about 31,000 at the height. BELCO anticipate remaining work will be "labour-intensive and slow going" however 12 linemen from the Caribbean will be flying in to assist.
•Transportation: Causeway is open, ferries to operate on Sunday, no word on buses yet as routes being assessed
•Airport: Set to open at 5pm today
•Tarpaulin: Govt. providing tarpaulin to those with damage, collect from Warwick Camp from 8am - 8pm
•Schools: Only confirmed one so far is Saltus, who will re-open at St John’s Rd on Monday, while the Cavendish campus suffered some roof damage, so will remain closed. News on Govt schools expected on Sunday
•Communication: TBI opens up all their 30+ wi-fi hotspots to the public for free for the next few days, Digicel at 75% and will fly in equipment & experts to help with repairs

[cycloneye]

Here is the summary of how things are returning to normal as of 8:05 PM AST.

Summary as of Sun Oct 19 - 8.05pm:



•Good News: Police confirm no loss of life or serious injuries during the storm, and we have a hurricane baby...with a baby boy born during the height of the storm
•BELCO: We started with over 31,000 out, now 10522 are without power. The distribution is Central 3886, City of Hamilton 141, East 2866 and West 3629. Twelve linemen from the Caribbean will be flying in on Monday
•Transportation: Causeway is open, ferries now operating, Buses will resume partial service starting around 9 am Monday. The following routes will be in effect: Routes 10 and 11 to and from Hamilton to St. George’s, and Routes 7 and 8 from Hamilton to Hitching Post layby, just short of Somerset bridge
•Airport: Re-opened this afternoon, flights are now arriving
•Cruises: Today & tomorrow's calls cancelled, Celebrity Infinity on schedule for Wed. arrival
•Tarpaulin: Govt. providing tarpaulin, collect from Warwick Camp from 8am - 8pm
•Tech: TBI opens up 30+ wi-fi hotspots to public for free for next few days | Digicel at 80%, brought in 8 technicians to help with repairs | CableVision have 5 crews out working
• All Government Offices will be open on Monday
•Banks: Clarien, HSBC & Butterfield to open on Monday
•Schools Open on Monday: BHS, MSA, Somersfield, Bermuda Institute, Warwick Academy, Saltus St John’s Rd
•Schools Closed on Monday: Saltus Cavendish, all Govt schools
•Pre-Schools: Flying Start, First Friends, Adventureland, Onionpatch, Little Learners, Heritage and Learning Zone will be closed on Monday; while Sweet Pea, Tree Trops, Cornerstone and Play With A Purpose will open on Monday.