Extreme Conditions

Hurricane heads for Bermuda

(11 September 2006)

Tropical Storm Florence was upgraded to a hurricane on Sunday and is heading towards Bermuda, forcing the airport to close.

The hurricane, which has so far registered winds of 75mph, is expected to hit the islands on Monday, but it is not clear whether this will be a direct hit.

The US National Hurricane Center has predicted 13-20cm of rain and heavy sea surges.

The majority of tourists have remained in Bermuda. Windows and doors have been boarded up and residents have stocked up on provisions.