As the now-Category 4 Hurricane Gonzalo continues northward, poised for a near-direct hit on Bermuda, the Hurricane Watch Net (HWN) has affirmed plans to activate this afternoon, October 16, at 2100 UTC. As of 1800 UTC, the storm was 460 miles south-southwest of Bermuda, moving at 7 MPH and packing maximum sustained winds of 145 MPH.

“Interests in Bermuda should be rushing their preparations to completion,” the National Hurricane Center in Miami has advised.

HWN Manager Bobby Graves, KB5HAV, said Bermudans can expect to experience tropical storm wind conditions beginning late this evening. “It is currently expected for the eye to pass close to Bermuda near daybreak,” he said. “Any slight movement of the track to the east, and Gonzalo will make direct landfall.”

The Hurricane Watch Net will remain in continuous activation until sometime Saturday, October 18. Throughout this event, the net will operate on 14.325 during the day, shifting to 7.268 MHz at 0100 UTC, and returning to 14.325 MHz at 1000 UTC. Graves has noted that the Net’s plans are subject to change.

Graves said the Net will be collecting surface observations for relay to the National Hurricane Center. “We will also be available to provide backup communications for emergency operation centers, emergency management agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other vital interests,” Graves said.

“Amateur stations in the affected area should be aware of the storm, and be prepared to operate from a place of safety,” he continued, expressing the Net’s appreciation for a clear frequency and for assisting with relays.

More information on Hurricane Gonzalo and the Hurricane Watch Net is on the HWN website.