A quiet start to the hurricane season cannot excuse complacency, the Minister of National Security warned.

Michael Weeks said while there were no storm risks to Bermuda at present, this did not mean the weather could not take a swift turn for the worse.

“People should not confuse a lower seasonal forecast with lower risk,” he said. “The forecast may be quieter than usual, but Bermuda cannot afford to be casual.

“A below-normal season can still produce a storm that causes serious damage.

“It only takes one hurricane close to Bermuda to affect homes, roads, power, businesses and families.”

Mr Weeks was speaking after meeting the Emergency Measures Organisation this week to review the country’s readiness for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

The meeting included a briefing form the Bermuda Weather Service and touched on official communication channels and necessary preparations.

Mr Weeks warned that a single storm could still have “a significant impact on Bermuda”.

He emphasised the importance of being proactive and urged the public not to wait until conditions have already deteriorated.

Mr Weeks said: “If shutters need to go up, if outdoor furniture needs to be moved or if a neighbour needs help, that work must be done before tropical storm-force winds arrive.

“Once conditions become unsafe, it may be too late.”

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs between June 1 and November 30.

The US’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted this season to be less active than normal, with anywhere between eight and 14 named storms and three to six hurricanes, three of which may be a Category 3 or higher.

The organisation forecast El Niño conditions, which could suppress tropical cyclone activity in the Atlantic.

However, unusually warm waters could still support storm development.

Businesses in particular were reminded to review their continuity plans.

The EMO reminded residents not to rely solely on a storm’s category, explaining that lower-level hurricanes and tropical storms could still cause major disruptions and dangerous conditions.

The ministry reminded the public to rely on official Government of Bermuda channels for information rather than unverified social media posts or weather applications.

Government communications include the Emergency Broadcast Radio Station on 100.1FM and official social media accounts.

Residents were encouraged to keep a working portable FM radio with spare batteries in the event of a storm.

The EMO encouraged the public to review hurricane plans, maintain at least 72 hours of essential supplies, find important documents and communicate with family members.

Hurricane guidance and an official hurricane checklist can be found on the Government’s online hurricane preparedness portal.