Bermuda records wettest January day
HAMILTON, Bermuda (CMC) — The Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) said Thursday’s torrential downpours produced the most rain in a single January day since records began here more than 60 years ago.
The BWS said the 5.34 inches of rain recorded easily beat the previous January record of 3.99 inches in a day set in 1986.
Thursday’s rain, which left several streets, flooded and caused damage at the LF Wade International Airport, was slightly more than the average for the entire month (5.3 inches), the BWS said.
More rain is expected in the coming days from an approaching low, which is forecast to produce a maximum temperatures of only 59 Fahrenheit (15 Celsius) on Monday. The coldest day ever recorded in Bermuda was 44F on February 27, 1950.
Last year’s rainfall in Bermuda totalled more than 71 inches — around 15 inches above normal.
Thursday’s downpours caused ceilings to fall in and water to cascade through light fixtures at the airport, prompting Premier Michael Dunkley and Tourism and Transport Minister Michael Fahy to lament the condition of the terminal.
Both took to social media, posting images and video footage of the damage, to highlight the need for a new airport.
“Our fellow dedicated Bermudians are working in less than ideal conditions every day to keep us open for business,” Fahy said.
“The smell is one of severe damp in many areas. Imagine what you can’t see with the naked eye. I commend the men and women serving at the airport and all Bermudians should thank them for their service under such conditions. We need a new facility as soon as possible.”
The government’s plans to build a new US$250 million terminal through a public-private partnership with a Canadian company were stalled when demonstrators prevented legislators from entering the House of Assembly in early December.
The Bermuda Industrial Union called for the airport plan to be scrapped during a work stoppage this week.
Speaker of the House Randy Horton adjourned proceedings last month until early February but Dunkley has made it clear government intends to press on with its airport plan.
