High winds knocked out BELCO customers’ power island wide on Saturday and Sunday
Gale force winds and high seas batter the shoreline at Shelly Bay Beach, North Shore Road in Hamilton Parish
BELCO has reported more than 2,700 customers are without power as of noon on Sunday following a winter storm at the weekend.
A majority of customers are without power in St. George’s parish – 1116, 539 customers in Hamilton Parish and 479 in Warwick parish caussed by gale-force winds lashing the Northern part of the island.
The Bermuda Police Service said this morning, the roadway between the Crawl Hill Esso Service Station and the MarketPlace supermarket on North Shore Road in Hamilton Parish had temporarily been blocked due to a fallen utility pole.
Traffic was being diverted along Radnor Road however, the roadway was cleared by late Sunday morning.
The Department of Public Transportation advised that bus service resumed at 9 am and remind the public that weather conditions are still unsettled.
Service was suspended at 8.45pm Saturday in the interest of safety to public transport staff and passengers.
They urged motorists, riders and pedestrians to continue to exercise caution on the roads.
According to the Bermuda Weather Service, a gale warning remains in effect today with blustery showers and sustained gale force winds frequently gusting storm force expected.
Forecasters said, “Hazardous seas prevail as gusty gales persist, while temperatures remain exceptionally cool, even for early February.”
Today’s forecasts predicts winds traveling west-northwesterly with gale force gusts to storm force and possible gusts up to storm force in elevated or exposed areas, easing strong to gale force towards evening. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 13°C/55°F.
The Ministry of National Security has encouraged residents to follow official Government of Bermuda channels for the latest advisories and updates. For weather updates, visit www.weather.bm.
February Spa Month in Bermuda, a celebration of wellness, relaxation, and self-care taking place across the island.
Throughout the month, spas are offering special treatments and curated experiences designed to help residents and visitors unwind and recharge.
We spoke to Jasmine Furbert, Director of Visitor Experience at the Bermuda Tourism Authority, about how people can take advantage of special, Spa Month deals.
Hamilton, Bermuda 06 February 2026 – The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is set to host the 9th Annual BEDC Business Awards on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Grotto Bay Beach Resort.
This annual awards ceremony celebrates the achievements, growth, and resilience of Bermuda’s micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, and includes special recognition for entrepreneurs operating within the Economic Empowerment Zones.
The evening will bring together business owners, industry leaders, government representatives, and community partners to recognise excellence across Bermuda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with a welcome reception, dinner, an awards presentation, and a celebration with a DJ.
Tahkeesha Welch, Loan Portfolio Management Officer at BEDC and lead organiser of the event, said: “The BEDC Business Awards are about more than recognition. They are about celebrating Bermudian-owned businesses that serve our community, create jobs, and keep our economy moving. Each nomination represents a story of commitment, problem-solving, and growth, and we are proud to spotlight the entrepreneurs who continue to show what is possible through hard work and consistency.”
Maryem Biadillah, Acting Director of the Economic Development Department, said: “The Economic Development Department is proud to continue to sponsor the Innovation and Tech Award. Every year, we look forward to celebrating entrepreneurs who are using technology to solve problems and drive progress. We remain committed to supporting eentrepreneurship as a pathway to innovation, inclusion, and sustainable economic growth and look forward to meeting the nominees and winners of the 2026 Business Awards.”
The 2026 awards will recognise businesses and individuals across a range of categories. These include Business of the Year, Start-up of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Vendor of the Year. Additional categories include Customer Service Award, People’s Choice Award, Most Enterprising Young Entrepreneur, Family Business of the Year, Economic Empowerment Zone Business of the Year, BEDC Client of the Year, and the Innovation and Tech Award.
Dr. Carika Weldon, Founder & CEO of CariGenetics, had this to say about winning the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award: “Being honored with the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award was a huge shock to me and the CariGenetics team. This is not because we did not think we deserved it but because sometimes it’s easier to see how far you have to go rather than how far you have already come. Winning the award reminded us just how much our work had paid off and allowed us to enjoy the accomplishment that comes with having a new= idea and bringing it to fruition. Basking in a moment of celebration is just as important as tackling the problems that come with starting a business.”
She continued: “I am grateful to be the only person to hold 3 prestigious Bermuda awards in succession: Woman of the Year (2022), Bermudian of the Year (2023) and Entrepreneur of the Year (2024). The impact of this Entrepreneur award reminded me and gave hope to others that one is not limited by the expectations of others and that you can truly chart your own path if you chase your dreams.”
Members of the public are encouraged to submit nominations for businesses they believe demonstrate exceptional service, strong growth, innovation, and overall excellence. All nominees must be Bermudian or Bermudian-owned businesses, and nominations must meet the outlined criteria to be considered. Nominations close on February 15, 2026.
The event is also supported by Pitt & Co., whose sponsorship will help enhance the overall guest experience throughout the evening, including the welcome reception.
Tickets for the 9th Annual BEDC Business Awards are available for purchase. Early bird tickets are priced at $75 until February 28, 2026, after which tickets will be $95. A limited number of table packages are also available.
The BEDC Business Awards continue to serve as a platform to celebrate local success stories, strengthen connections across the business community, and reinforce BEDC’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship at every stage.
About BEDC Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is Bermuda’s premier source of free confidential business advice for entrepreneurs. The mission is to serve Bermuda’s local business community with the highest degree of professionalism by providing, authoritative business advice, counsel, economic development and financial support. Bermuda Business Starts Here! For more information, visit www.bedc.bm
CARDIFF, WALES – DECEMBER 16: Nathan Trott of Cardiff City celebrates after teammate David Turnbull (not pictured) scores his team’s first goal during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Cardiff City and Chelsea at Cardiff City Stadium on December 16, 2025 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
While a sweep of frozen pitches across the United Kingdom forced several Bermudian players to the sidelines this weekend, those who did see action delivered a series of clinical performances to secure vital points across the football league pyramid.
Nathan Trott produced another authoritative display between the posts to help Cardiff City defy the odds in a 3–0 away victory over Rotherham United. The Bluebirds appeared to be in significant trouble just 21 minutes into the contest at the AESSEAL New York Stadium when Ryan Wintle was shown a straight red card.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Trott and his teammates remained resolute. The Bermudian stopper commanded his area with composure to record his 11th shutout of the season, providing the foundation for a brilliant counter-attacking performance that silenced the home crowd.
At Kenilworth Road, Nahki Wells proved to be the difference-maker as Luton Town extended their impressive home streak. The veteran forward came off the bench to help secure a 2–1 victory over his former employers, Bradford City.
The result ensures the Hatters remain unbeaten in their last 10 home league fixtures, a run that has cemented their position as promotion contenders. Wells’ movement and experience proved pivotal in the closing stages, ensuring the points stayed in Bedfordshire.
In the Southern League Premier Central, Willie Clemons provided the weekend’s most dramatic moment. Traveling to Barwell FC, Leiston FC appeared to be heading for a share of the spoils until the fifth minute of stoppage time.
Clemons reacted quickest in a crowded penalty area to smash the ball home from close range, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling support and snatching a 3–2 win in the dying seconds.
Further down the pyramid, young Bermudian talent continued to flourish on the road:
NPL Midlands Division One: Harry Twite anchored a dominant Loughborough Students side as they eased to a 4–1 win at the Long Eaton United Stadium.
Isthmian League South Central: Coleridge Fubler Jr. and Binfield FC secured a disciplined 2–0 victory over Hendon FC at the Robert Parker Stadium.
With several matches postponed due to the weather, many of the island’s contingent will be hoping for a thaw ahead of the mid-week fixtures.
The Ministry of National Security said increasing winds expected from 11 o’clock tonight will produce hazardous driving environments, especially in exposed areas
Watford Bridge, Sandy’s Photo: File Photo
Full statement from the Ministry of National Security:
The Ministry of National Security is issuing an updated public safety advisory this evening as winter gale conditions continue to intensify across the island.
Weather forecasts indicate that winds will strengthen further this evening, with the strongest gusts expected between 11.00 p.m. tonight and 6.00 a.m. tomorrow morning.
These conditions will produce hazardous driving environments, especially in exposed areas.
The Ministry confirms and reiterates that the Causeway will not be closed and remains open.
However, worsening winds combined with increased coastal sea levels are expected to generate significant spray across the bridge crossing. This also extends to Watford Bridge in the west end.
Motorists, particularly motorcycle and auxiliary cycle riders, are strongly urged to stay off the roads during this peak weather window. Ideally, travel should be limited to emergencies and essential movement only.
More specifically, residents and motorists are urged to:
Avoid the Causeway as well as Watford Bridge after 11.00 p.m. tonight unless travel is absolutely essential.
Stay off the roads wherever possible during the peak wind period of 11.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m.
Continue to use extreme caution if they must travel before conditions worsen.
The Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP, said, “Conditions are expected to worsen significantly later tonight. While the Causeway remains open, we are advising the public to avoid crossing it, or Watford Bridge, after 11.00 p.m. unless absolutely necessary. Our priority is to keep everyone safe, and we urge residents to stay off the roads during the peak gusts.”
The Ministry will continue to monitor the weekend weather system throughout the night and will issue additional updates if conditions change.
The public is encouraged to follow official Government of Bermuda channels for the latest advisories and updates. The Ministry of National Security will continue to closely monitor the system throughout the evening and will provide additional updates if conditions change. For weather updates, visit www.weather.bm.
Managing Director Shelley Leman at BELCO thanked the public for their patience while crews carry out repairs to remaining customers without power
Full statement from BELCO:
Bermuda Electric Light Company (BELCO) Managing Director Shelly Leman today provided an update on BELCO’s readiness to respond to outages as a result of a winter gale impacting the island.
As of 3:30 PM, there are currently 12 customers without power, primarily single customer outages across the island.
BELCO’s operational teams met at 8 AM this morning to review response plans for the severe weather expected later tonight, including contingencies in the event that the causeway is closed.
Today at approximately 12:15 PM, there was an underground cable fault which resulted in the loss of supply to just over 1,000 customers in St. David’s.
BELCO crews were immediately dispatched, and service was restored to all impacted customers by 1:20 PM.
Standby crews will continue to respond to outages throughout the evening until conditions deteriorate such that it is no longer safe to do so.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution when approaching BELCO crews working on the roadside and to avoid entering any work zones clearly marked with cones or barriers for the safety of all, including our employees.
If customers experience a partial outage, or emergencies such as pole fires, or downed power lines, they should report them to 955.
Ms. Leman said: “We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as our teams work to maintain service and restore power as quickly and safely as possible during this weekend’s adverse weather. Please stay safe and follow official weather advisories.”
The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation held their 4th annual Small Business Expo at the Cedarbridge Academy
Vendors, small business experts and entrepreneurs talked shop at CedarBridge Academy today where the 4th Annual Small Business Expo was held.
The event will feature twenty businesses and organisations offering support services and practical resources to help entrepreneurs and small business owners build and grow their ventures.
The BEDC said, throughout the day, attendees will have multiple opportunities to connect through structured and informal networking moments, including coffee breaks, open networking blocks, and a lunch networking period.
A Vendor’s Village also drew dozens of shoppers featuring a retail marketplace for Bermuda-based apparel, food, home goods, and other speciality brands.
The Government said that while winds gusts remain high, there are no plans to close the Causeway in St. George’s today
The Causeway, St. George’s remains open during high winds. Photo: File Image
Full statement from the Ministry of National Security:
Bermuda remains under a Severe Weather Watch and a Storm Watch according to the Bermuda Weather Service (BWS), and the Ministry of National Security is advising the public to take extra precautions when traversing the island today as winter gale conditions continue.
Forecasts from the BWS indicate that winds will strengthen later today and peak overnight, with strong westerly gusts coinciding with high tide.
While gusty conditions are anticipated, the Ministry stressed that there are no plans to close the Causeway, despite media reports.
However, in the interest of public safety, the Ministry notes that these conditions will create challenging and hazardous driving environments, particularly along the Causeway.
The Ministry therefore urges residents (particularly motorcyclists and auxiliary riders) to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution if they must cross the Causeway during periods of deteriorating weather.
Ideally, residents are encouraged to limit non‑critical travel, particularly later this evening as winds strengthen.
This afternoon, the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP, said, “The safety of our community remains our priority. While current forecasts do not indicate the need to close the Causeway, we are monitoring conditions closely. We ask the public to please use good judgment, avoid unnecessary travel. Please continue to rely on official information sources and stay alert as the weather evolves.”
The public is encouraged to follow official Government of Bermuda channels for the latest advisories and updates.
The Ministry of National Security will continue to closely monitor the system throughout the evening and will provide additional updates if conditions change. For weather updates, visit www.weather.bm.
The Bermuda Police Service said a motorcar and motorcycle were involved in the collision Saturday afternoon
Full statement from the Bermuda Police Service:
Around 1:20pm on Saturday, 7 February 2026, police and other emergency services were dispatched to reports of a serious collision involving a car and a motorcycle on Scotts Hill Road, Sandys, near the junction with Bob’s Valley Road.
Initial information suggests the car was traveling along Scotts Hill Road and the motorcycle was exiting Bob’s Valley Road, when the collision occurred.
The driver of the car is not believed to have been injured, however the male passenger has sustained facial injuries and the male motorcyclist has sustained what are believed to be serious facial injuries.
Police are currently processing the scene. Traffic is being diverted away from the scene until the road has been cleared motorist or advised to use alternative routes.
Witnesses are asked to call PC Imani Scott on 211 or iscott@bps.bm
Players must walk rather than run, the ball must stay below head height, kick‑ins replace throw‑ins, and physical contact is prohibited
Hamilton, Bermuda (6 February 2026) – Curly’s Walking Football will launch a full local league on March 7th, expanding on the success of the team’s recent competition in Liverpool, UK.
Led by football veteran Leroy “Curly Joe” Wilson, the league currently has enough players for three ten‑person teams, with a goal of establishing at least six teams.
Walking football is played in more than 80 countries and follows rules similar to traditional football, with key modifications: players must walk rather than run, the ball must stay below head height, kick‑ins replace throw‑ins, and physical contact is prohibited. These rules make the sport accessible to individuals seeking a low‑impact way to stay active, and no prior experience is required.
“I will train new players until they are ready to join a team,” said Mr. Wilson. “Once teams are formed, each captain will work closely with their players.”
Men over 50 and women over 40 are encouraged to visit Bermuda College on Saturdays between 9:00am and 10:30am to learn more about joining the league. Mr. Wilson is also recruiting referees of any age.
“There is genuine camaraderie among the players,” Mr. Wilson noted. “When our team travelled to Liverpool, they bonded immediately. We always expect respectful behaviour, and we ensure that all players—especially women—are treated with the highest level of respect.”
Mr. Wilson aims to form a national team from the top local players to compete in the 2027 FIFWA Walking Football World Nations Cup.
“Curly’s Walking Football is grateful for the support of Polaris Holding Company Ltd., whose sponsorship has created new opportunities for league development and international participation,” he said.
Cheryl Hayward-Chew, Chair of Polaris, stated, “We are delighted to support walking football in Bermuda, which has enormous potential for growth.”
Those interested in joining as a player or referee may visit Bermuda College on Saturdays from 9:00am to 10:30am or contact Curly’s Walking Football on WhatsApp at 595‑8048. League games will take place on Saturdays from 9:00am to 12:00pm at Bermuda College and Cedarbridge Academy.
***
About Polaris
Polaris Holding Company Ltd. is the parent company of Stevedoring Services Limited, Surface Experts Ltd. (formerly East End Asphalt Company Limited), Equipment Sales & Rentals Limited and Duck’s Puddle Properties Limited. Bermuda’s national and commercial institutions and its community depend on goods imported through Polaris. Polaris is responsible for over 30,000 container moves per year, from goods to groceries, vehicles to materials, and so much more. Learn more about Polaris at www.polaris.bm.
Northlands Primary School took part in Global School Play Day, which promotes unstructured, screen-free play as a part of child development.
Laughter, movement, and creativity filled the campus at Northlands Primary School as students spent the day learning through play during Wednesday’s Global School Play Day, a worldwide initiative that promotes unstructured, screen-free play as a vital part of child development.
Northlands Primary has proudly represented Bermuda on Global School Play Day for the past six years. This year’s event reflected the school’s focus on student well-being and social-emotional learning, aligned with the National School Counsellors’ Week theme, “Amplify Student Success.”
Throughout the day, students participated in a wide range of hands-on activities designed to support brain development, emotional regulation, and essential life skills. Children brought their own toys to encourage sharing and cooperation, created chalk art to express creativity, and engaged in board games such as checkers, puzzles, Connect Four, Jenga, and Snakes and Ladders to strengthen problem-solving and executive functioning skills.
Sensory play stations included water activities and hands-on tasks such as sorting, stacking, organising, and tower building. Movement-based activities, including trampoline play, dancing, skipping, bowling, ping-pong, hula-hooping, and netball, supported physical well-being, coordination, focus, and teamwork. Group activities like parachute games encouraged listening, cooperation, and following directions, while team sports promoted communication and collaboration.
The Minister of Education, the Hon. Crystal Caesar, JP, praised the school’s School Counsellor and leaders for organising Global Pay Day. Minister Caesar said, “Initiatives like Global School Play Day nurture well-being while helping our young people build the social and life skills they will carry with them well beyond the classroom. It’s truly heart-warming to see students at Northlands Primary School fully engaged in good old-fashioned, hands-on learning through play.”
Teachers and staff actively joined in throughout the day, modelling connection, joy, and community alongside students.
“Play is a powerful social-emotional learning tool,” said School Counsellor La-Keesha Bean, who coordinated the event. “Through play, students strengthen relationship skills, self-management, responsible decision-making, and social awareness. It supports the diverse learning and emotional needs of both children and adults.”
Northlands Principal, Dr Holly Richardson, remarked, “There is no better way to learn and grow than through play for adults and children. As Heather Shumaker has said, ‘Playtime is precious. Play builds brain pathways for thinking, creativity, flexibility, empathy and many other lifelong skills.’ There was a lot of building that occurred as both students and teachers engaged in play at Northlands Primary during our Global Play Day.”
The day also built on professional development delivered to educators across the Bermuda Public School System at the start of the current school year, which emphasised the health, developmental, and social-emotional benefits of play.
By prioritising unstructured, screen-free play, Northlands Primary continues to create an inclusive, supportive environment where students feel safe to explore, connect, and grow.
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