The dangerous Category 4 storm hit Thursday, toppling trees, flooding streets and knocking out power to 90% of the island.
However, strict building codes and a commitment to hurricane preparedness paved the way for a wide-ranging recovery effort immediately following the storm. By Friday afternoon, power was restored to 22,000 customers with 5,300 remaining. All hotels are open with little to no damage and the airport is open.
'Bermuda bounces back quickly from storms thanks to a community spirit that is evident island-wide. Hospitality is in our blood—we take care of our visitors on-island and are ready to welcome new visitors from our airline and cruise ship partners,' said Victoria Isley, chief sales & marketing officer, Bermuda Tourism Authority.
'Bermuda is on track this year to welcome the most visitors to the island since 2008, and to be back online within 24 hours of such a major storm is a testament to Bermuda’s dedication to visitors,' Isley added.
Hotels such as the Fairmont Southampton and Grotto Bay entertained guests during the storm with a Hurricane Party and Rum Cake Bingo respectively. The Hamilton Princess was fully operational through the storm, including Marcus restaurant.
The L.F. Wade International Airport, as well as the causeway, the main road serving the airport, reopened Friday, and planes touched down with new visitors. All hotel properties are open and welcoming guests. According to Bermuda Tourism Authority, they sustained very little damage as a result of the hurricane and clean-up was under way Friday.
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