Hurricane Ernesto hit the British Atlantic territory of Bermuda early Saturday, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. The category 1 storm had maximum sustained winds of 85 mph, causing concern for residents who were advised to take precautions.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center issued warnings of dangerous storm surges, significant coastal flooding, and the potential for life-threatening flash floods due to the expected 6 to 9 inches of rainfall on the island.
With its slow movement, Ernesto was projected to maintain hurricane-strength winds until Saturday afternoon, followed by tropical storm-strength winds into Sunday. The storm was moving north-northeast at a speed of 9 mph.
As a result of the storm, Bermuda's power utility reported that over three-quarters of its customers were without power, leading to an active state of crisis. The government had suspended public transportation and closed the airport in anticipation of the storm's impact.
Bermuda, known for its sturdy construction and elevated terrain, was facing a rare direct hit from a hurricane. The island's offshore financial center was bracing for the aftermath of Ernesto's landfall.
Prior to reaching Bermuda, Ernesto had caused widespread power outages and water shortages in Puerto Rico. The U.S. territory was still grappling with the aftermath of the storm, with hundreds of thousands of residents without essential services.
Efforts were underway to restore power in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with progress being made to bring back online critical infrastructure. The Atlantic hurricane season, predicted to be above average, has already seen five named storms and three hurricanes.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's forecast of an active hurricane season underscores the need for preparedness and vigilance in the face of severe weather events.
