Bermuda. But the Island could still be hit by gale force winds tomorrow afternoon.

Early yesterday the storm was scheduled to go right over the Island. But latest forecasts from the Bermuda Weather Service last night predicted its nearest point of impact will be 58 nautical miles east south east at 6 p.m.

BWS meteorologist Kimberley Stevenson said: "At present we are not expecting hurricane force winds, but we are still expecting some nasty weather.'' Bid to protect dolphins: Page 5 Jose winds to strike Bermuda A small craft warning will be in effect from 5 p.m. tonight and rain and winds of around 34 knots are expected by 5.30 p.m. tomorrow, gusting to 50 knots.

Mrs. Stevenson said the combination of high winds, high tide at 8.21 p.m. on Saturday, and a full moon on Sunday should cause rough seas.

The earlier threat that hurricane force winds could batter the Island tomorrow has led to cancellations at some of Bermuda's leading hotels, including Ariel Sands, Grotto Bay Beach, and Sonesta Beach.

One ship, the Seven Seas Navigator which was due to arrive in Hamilton tomorrow from Florida has cancelled its voyage.

Minister for Labour, Home Affairs and Public Safety Paula Cox said: "I know that people were well prepared for Hurricane Gert. Jose is a lesser storm than Gert and has been downgraded to a tropical storm.

"It is still a threat to Bermuda and the public is urged not to take things for granted.''