Hurricane Ernesto, after causing significant disruptions in Puerto Rico, is now a Category 1 hurricane moving towards Bermuda. It is expected to intensify into a major hurricane by the weekend. The storm has already resulted in power outages and flooding in Puerto Rico, and now poses a threat to Bermuda and potentially the U.S. East Coast with dangerous rip currents.
Hurricane Ernesto, which recently battered Puerto Rico with heavy rains and power outages, has intensified into a Category 1 hurricane. As it moves northward, it is expected to strengthen further, posing a significant threat to Bermuda and causing concern along the U.S. East Coast due to expected rip currents.
Ernesto, initially a tropical storm, unleashed over 10 inches of rain in parts of Puerto Rico, leading to widespread power outages affecting over 730,000 customers. The storm has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane and is forecasted to reach major hurricane status as it approaches Bermuda. Currently, Ernesto's maximum sustained winds are at 80 mph, and it is moving north-northwest away from Puerto Rico.
As Ernesto strengthens, Bermuda is on high alert with a hurricane watch issued. The island could experience hurricane conditions by Saturday, with potential impacts including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. Bermuda's government is urging residents to prepare for the storm, which could reach near major hurricane intensity as it passes near or over the island.
While Ernesto is expected to stay offshore of the U.S. mainland, it is likely to generate large swells that will affect the East Coast from Florida to the Northeast. These conditions are forecasted to persist into the weekend, posing a significant risk of dangerous rip currents that could impact beachgoers. Authorities advise caution and recommend that the public stay informed about local weather updates.
Hurricane Ernesto continues to be a significant threat as it moves towards Bermuda. Authorities are closely monitoring the storm's path and potential impact, urging residents and those in its projected path to take necessary precautions. The situation remains dynamic, and updates from meteorological agencies are crucial for those in affected regions.
"As I have said before, it only takes one storm to cause significant damage and disrupt our way of life." - Michael Weeks, Bermuda Minister of National Security