FORCE OF NATURE

Hurricane Nicole Strengthens to Category 4 on the Way to Bermuda

“Extremely dangerous” hurricane arrives Thursday morning.

An “extremely dangerous” Hurricane Nicole strengthened to Category 4 on Wednesday night en route to Bermuda. The storm, with winds increasing to 130 mph, was expected to hit the tiny island directly on Thursday morning. A hurricane warning is in place and authorities have warned residents to stay indoors and make all necessary preparations. “We have a long night in front of us,” Premier Michael Dunkley said Wednesday. “We better be prepared for the onslaught of hurricane-force winds, but if we heed the warnings, we will be in a strong position once the storm blows through.” Several businesses were boarded up in anticipation of Nicole, and many airlines have canceled flights to the island.