Hurricane Ernesto Gathers Strength as It Targets Bermuda

As the residents of Puerto Rico begin to recover from the impact of Hurricane Ernesto, the storm is now intensifying and heading toward Bermuda. With cleanup efforts still ongoing, Ernesto poses a new threat, potentially bringing powerful winds and heavy rains to Bermuda and later to Atlantic Canada.

Storm’s Current Status

Hurricane Ernesto regained strength while tracking over warm Atlantic waters. As of the latest update, the Category 1 hurricane was approximately 450 miles south-southwest of Bermuda, with sustained winds reaching up to 90 mph.

Impact on Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, about 20% of residents and businesses are still without power following the storm. The local energy provider, LUMA Energy, is working on restoration efforts amid record-breaking heat. As of Thursday evening, 258,000 customers were reported to be without access to drinking water.

Projected Path of Ernesto

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Ernesto could intensify into a Category 3 hurricane by Friday, potentially impacting Bermuda on Saturday. “Ernesto strengthening as it approaches Bermuda,” the NHC reported, indicating that the storm could achieve sustained winds of at least 111 mph by that time.

Effect on the East Coast

While the hurricane is expected to avoid a direct hit on the U.S. East Coast, it will create conditions for dangerous rip currents and high surf from Florida all the way up to Nova Scotia. Beachgoers are being cautioned to stay out of the ocean from Friday through Sunday, with the National Weather Service issuing high rip current and high surf warnings for various regions.

• High rip current risk in Miami, Jacksonville, and Charleston on Friday.
• The NWS warns that conditions will worsen from 6 a.m. ET to 6 p.m. ET on Friday.
• A high surf warning is in effect from 2 p.m. ET Friday to 11 a.m. ET Saturday.

For those interested in tracking the storm’s path, monitors and forecast tools are available to help keep everyone informed about Hurricane Ernesto’s development as it moves through the Caribbean and approaches Bermuda.

Stay Updated

As Hurricane Ernesto continues to gather strength, it is essential for residents in affected areas to stay informed and prepared for potential impacts from the storm. Proactive measures can help ensure safety and minimize damage as the hurricane’s path unfolds.