As of Wednesday afternoon, Hurricane Ernesto continued to bring significant rainfall to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. By midday, Puerto Rico reported rain totals ranging from 2 to 6 inches, with the highest amounts concentrated in the eastern regions of the island where heavy rain bands settled.
Some areas have already recorded up to 10 inches of rain, and an additional 2 to 6 inches is expected before the rainfall subsides. Flood watches remain in effect through Thursday morning, as excessive runoff could cause rivers and streams to overflow, leading to flash flooding. Mudslides also pose a risk, particularly in steep terrain.
Ernesto is projected to strengthen as it moves north in the Atlantic over the week. By Friday, it is expected to reach major hurricane status as a category 3, marking the second storm of the season to achieve this strength. Ernesto is anticipated to approach Bermuda as a strong category 2 hurricane by the weekend, although no watches or warnings have been issued for the island yet, they are likely to follow in the coming days.
In the tri-state area, the impact from Hurricane Ernesto is expected to be minimal, as the storm will remain far offshore. However, beachgoers will notice some peripheral effects, particularly due to swells created by Ernesto that will reach the East Coast. This will result in higher surf conditions and an increased risk of dangerous rip currents, with these conditions expected to persist through the weekend.
Additionally, coastal flooding may be a concern as Ernesto’s effects, combined with onshore winds and a nearly full moon, can lead to higher high tides. This may result in minor flooding in low-lying areas and roadways.