News|WeatherSchools and airport shut as Hurricane Imelda moves over BermudaBermuda deploys soldiers to secure infrastructure, clear roads and help at emergency shelters.

Weather Update: Hurricane Imelda Impacts Bermuda

Hurricane Imelda, classified as a Category 2 hurricane, affected Bermuda with significant winds and flooding. The National Weather Service reported the hurricane's maximum sustained winds at 100 mph (161 km/h) as it moved east-northeast over the island. The storm's core was approximately 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Bermuda at the time of impact.

The National Hurricane Center indicated that damaging waves and flash flooding were anticipated, though conditions were expected to improve as the hurricane moved northeast. Bermuda's government response included the deployment of 100 soldiers to manage infrastructure and assist in emergency shelters. Public schools, government offices, and the international airport were closed on Wednesday in preparation.

Emergency shelters were utilized by 53 individuals, and power outages affected 654 residents, as reported by Bermuda's government. The hurricane center warned of rainfall between 50 and 100 mm (2 to 4 inches) and a dangerous storm surge that could cause coastal flooding.

Hurricane Imelda originated as a tropical storm over the Bahamas and escalated into a hurricane after impacting areas such as Florida’s east coast and the central and northwestern Bahamas. The storm caused significant disruptions, including power outages and evacuations in eastern Cuba, where more than 18,000 people were evacuated in Guantanamo province. Flooding and landslides affected 17 communities in Santiago de Cuba, resulting in two fatalities in Cuba and one missing person in Haiti.

Prior to Imelda, Category 4 Hurricane Humberto had dissipated after passing west of Bermuda.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.