Hurricane Ernesto is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane over the coming days as it travels north toward Bermuda, having already left half of Puerto Rico‘s residents without power on Wednesday.
Ernesto had moved out of Puerto Rico as of Thursday morning, with wind gusts of 85 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. It had brought almost 10 inches of rain to the island.
It is expected to gather strength through the coming weekend, possibly growing from a Category 1 to a Category 3 hurricane.
Broken electricity lines above homes damaged are seen after Tropical Storm Ernesto hit Fajardo, Puerto Rico, on Aug. 14, 2024.
Jaydee Lee Serrano/AFP via Getty Images
By Friday night, the storm is expected to approach Bermuda as a Category 2 hurricane with winds of up to 110 mph. Saturday will see conditions worsen, when the eye wall — and the strongest winds — may brush the island.
The approaching storm may also bring huge waves, storm surge and up to 12 inches of rain. A hurricane warning has been issued for the island.
Hurricane Ernesto is forecast to strengthen into a major hurricane as it closes in on Bermuda, but it will not make landfall on the U.S. East Coast.
ABC News
After churning past Bermuda, Ernesto is projected to continue north and brush the Canadian coast near Newfoundland. Damaging winds, high surf and heavy rain are expected early next week.
The gathering storm currently poses no direct threat to the U.S. East Coast, but its northward movement is expected to produce high surf and rip currents into the weekend.
Florida will begin to see large waves roll in from Thursday night and into Friday, while the Carolinas and Northeast will see similar conditions this weekend.
Puerto Rico suffered flash flooding, storm damage and widespread power outages on Wednesday as Ernesto moved past the island. Half of all residents were without power, with flooding and damage especially pronounced in the eastern part of the island.
Hurricane Ernesto is currently making its way towards Bermuda, with the Category 1 storm expected to bring strong winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding to the island. As residents and officials prepare for the storm’s arrival, it is important to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Ernesto is currently located about 400 miles south-southeast of Bermuda and is moving northwest at a speed of 12 mph. The storm is expected to strengthen slightly before reaching the island, with maximum sustained winds of around 85 mph.
As with any hurricane, it is important for residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their property. This includes securing loose outdoor items, stocking up on supplies such as food, water, and batteries, and having a plan in place in case of evacuation.
In addition to strong winds, Hurricane Ernesto is expected to bring heavy rain to Bermuda, which could lead to flooding in low-lying areas. Residents should be prepared for potential power outages and road closures, and should avoid driving through flooded areas.
Officials in Bermuda are closely monitoring the storm and are urging residents to stay informed through local news outlets and official government channels. The government has also activated emergency response teams to assist with any necessary evacuations or rescue operations.
While hurricanes can be unpredictable, it is important for residents to take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during severe weather events. By staying informed, preparing ahead of time, and following the guidance of local officials, residents can minimize the impact of Hurricane Ernesto on their lives and property.
