Hurricane Felix hitting the Island a few hours before polling stations open, the Premier said yesterday.

But it is possible voting could be stopped and polling stations closed if conditions get too bad.

Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan issued a statement yesterday saying the Referendum on Independence would still take place as scheduled.

"Following consultations with the Attorney General, it is clear that the date for the Referendum cannot be altered without Parliamentary approval.'' Speaking after attending a meeting of the Emergency Measures Organisation, Sir John said the weather situation was being monitored "closely and often'' to take into account any contingencies.

If the weather deteriorates dramatically tomorrow, the Returning Officer at each polling station could halt voting, delaying it until the next day.

The polls open at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. and any time they were open would be taken off the length of time they opened again.

Mr. Leo Mills, Cabinet Secretary, said: "There is legislation that allows for the Returning Officer, once the poll has commenced and depending on the circumstances, to suspend the polling for that day.'' Meanwhile, a petition is being circulated by the PLP Supporters for an Independent Bermuda, calling on the party leader, Mr. Frederick Wade, to reverse his decision on calling for abstention.

The petition reads: "If you believe in the right to decide your country's destiny, tell your party leader so by signing here and voting `yes' on August 15.''