Hurricane Ernesto has strengthened to Category 1 as it moves away from Puerto Rico, bringing the threat of significant flooding to the island and surrounding areas.
The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) reported that Ernesto’s maximum sustained winds have increased to 75 mph, with further strengthening expected in the coming days.
As of 11 AM AST on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, Ernesto was located about 175 miles northwest of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and 835 miles south-southwest of Bermuda.
The hurricane is moving northwest at 16 mph but is expected to turn northward in the next day or two.
While Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are no longer in the direct path of the storm, they remain under a Tropical Storm Warning.
These areas are forecast to receive substantial rainfall, with southeastern Puerto Rico potentially seeing 6 to 8 inches of rain, and isolated maximum amounts of up to 10 inches. This heavy precipitation poses a significant risk of flooding and mudslides.
The NHC warns that life-threatening surf and rip currents are likely along the coasts of the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
These dangerous conditions are expected to spread to the Bahamas and the east coast of the United States in the coming days.
As Ernesto continues its northward trajectory, attention is now turning to Bermuda.
The island lies in the potential path of the strengthening hurricane, and residents are advised to closely monitor the storm’s progress.
The NHC has indicated that a hurricane watch may be issued for Bermuda later today.
Forecasters predict that Ernesto will approach Bermuda by Friday and Saturday, potentially as a stronger hurricane.
Residents and visitors to the island should begin preparations and stay informed about any watches or warnings that may be issued.
