Hurricane Ernesto, after impacting Puerto Rico with heavy rainfall, is now moving towards Bermuda.
The hurricane has gained strength overnight, with maximum sustained winds now at 85 mph. Forecasts indicate it will quickly intensify over open waters and is anticipated to become a significant hurricane by Friday, expected to approach or pass near Bermuda on Saturday, according to the National Hurricane Center’s latest advisory.
A significant hurricane has sustained winds of at least 111 mph, categorizing it as a Category 3 storm or higher. Currently, Ernesto is located east of southern Florida and is likely to remain far offshore while moving northward.
However, the eastern coast of the U.S., including Florida, may still experience effects from Ernesto. Swells originating from the hurricane are predicted to reach the area by Thursday night and into the weekend, creating a substantial risk of dangerous surf and rip currents, as stated by the Hurricane Center.
This latest storm’s formation comes shortly after Hurricane Debby impacted Florida’s Big Bend region on August 5.
Recently, the National Hurricane Center unveiled a new “cone of concern” for Hurricane Ernesto. Notably, this updated cone includes wind warnings for inland areas, improving the overall awareness of potential threats.
Key information regarding Hurricane Ernesto includes:
– Current location: 605 miles south-southwest of Bermuda
– Maximum sustained winds: 85 mph
– Movement: North at 13 mph
– Next advisory expected: 11 a.m.
Currently, no watches or warnings related to Hurricane Ernesto have been issued for Florida, but a hurricane warning is active for Bermuda. This warning indicates that hurricane conditions are anticipated in the area, typically issued around 36 hours prior to the expected arrival of tropical-storm-force winds, which can complicate outdoor preparations.
Forecasts show Ernesto moving toward Bermuda, with hurricane conditions expected Saturday, alongside potentially dangerous storm surges and heavy rainfall.
In total, Bermuda may see rainfall accumulations of 4 to 8 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 12 inches, leading to the potential for significant flooding.
Additionally, swells generated by Ernesto are affecting multiple regions, including the northern Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico, and parts of the southeastern Bahamas. These swells are expected to escalate beach hazards along the U.S. East Coast starting Thursday night.
In summary, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepare ahead of Hurricane Ernesto’s expected impacts as it approaches Bermuda, while also monitoring conditions along the U.S. East Coast.