Danielle has strengthened to a powerful Category Four hurricane but is still expected to miss the Island.

Last night the Bermuda Weather Service forecast that the hurricane would pass to the Island's east Saturday afternoon, bringing strong winds, but the gusts are not expected to reach tropical storm force.

A spokesman for the Weather Service said: "It's currently looking like it's going to pass around 230 nautical miles to our south west at around 3 p.m., and the radius of tropical storm winds is around 150 nautical miles, so we should be well outside that."

While the winds are not expected to be particularly dangerous, ocean conditions could be. Seas of 12 to 18 feet are expected off South Shore as the hurricane pushes large amounts of water towards the Island, but the waves will die down again during Sunday.

Over the weekend, the public are advised to avoid the water, and boaters are being asked to make sure their vessels are secure.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Earl is still being considered a possible threat to the Island.

Last night the storm was located 1,424 nautical miles southeast of Bermuda. It is currently forecast to continue moving west and gaining strength, but early models have suggested the storm could turn north early next week.

"It's still too far out to make any real forecast for it, but it doesn't hurt to be prepared," the spokesman said. "If it continues to turn north, we could start to see some effects next Thursday."

While Hurricane Danielle will most likely avoid the Island and Tropical Storm Earl is still a distance away, the public are being advised to remain cautious.

Belco reminded customers yesterday to avoid touching downed power lines or cutting tree limbs off power lines in the event of a strong storm.

A Belco spokesman said: "If you see a downed wire, call Belco immediately at 955. And do not attempt to carry out repairs on overhead wires yourself.

"Also, stay clear of areas where there is a lot of debris or downed trees because there could be live power lines concealed in the debris."

Before the storm, Belco suggested the public use surge protectors to protect electronic items from power surges caused by lightening strikes

Those intending to use a generator are asked to isolate it from the Belco system, operating it in well ventilated, indoor areas and keeping it out of the rain.

Bermuda Gas advised the public to turn off the gas at their tanks and cylinders before the winds get too high, and to make sure light canisters are properly secured.