Hurricane Ernesto, which has recently impacted Puerto Rico with heavy rainfall, is now moving towards Bermuda. The hurricane intensified overnight, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 mph. Forecasts suggest that it may strengthen further and approach significant hurricane status by Friday, with expectations of passing near Bermuda on Saturday.
Hurricane Ernesto currently sits approximately 495 miles south-southwest of Bermuda and is expected to stay well offshore as it moves north at about 13 mph. However, the eastern U.S. coastline, including Florida, may still experience effects from the storm, such as dangerous rip currents and coastal swells, starting Thursday night and lasting into the weekend. The National Hurricane Center has alerted beachgoers to a high risk of hazardous surf conditions.
A hurricane warning has been issued for Bermuda, indicating that hurricane conditions are anticipated within the area. Preparations for protection of life and property should be finalized promptly, as conditions are expected to worsen beginning late Friday, with rainfall projected to reach 6 to 12 inches, potentially causing flash flooding.
The National Hurricane Center has also introduced an updated “cone of concern,” which expands its warnings to include advisories for areas farther inland, providing a more comprehensive view of the threat posed by hurricanes.
As Hurricane Ernesto continues to develop, its wind field is substantial, extending up to 60 miles from the center. The storm is forecast to reach winds of 100 mph within the next 12 hours and could attain near Category 3 status by Friday.
While the situation is still developing, residents are urged to monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center, especially with the Atlantic hurricane season ongoing. The season typically runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity occurring from mid-August to mid-October.