Hurricane Ernesto Strengthens, Heads Towards Bermuda
Hurricane Ernesto is barreling towards the Caribbean island of Bermuda after causing widespread power outages in Puerto Rico. With wind gusts reaching 100mph (155km/h), Ernesto has now been upgraded to a category-two hurricane, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC).
The NHC warns that Ernesto could reach major hurricane strength by Friday and is expected to pass near or over Bermuda on Saturday. A dangerous storm surge with “large and destructive waves” and significant coastal flooding are expected as the hurricane approaches.
Bermuda, a British territory consisting of 181 islands in the Atlantic Ocean, is bracing for the impact of the storm. Forecasters have highlighted the role of climate change in intensifying storms like Ernesto.
Puerto Rico, which was hit by Ernesto before it headed towards Bermuda, experienced widespread power outages with more than half of homes and businesses left without electricity. Luma Energy, the main power supplier in Puerto Rico, reported that around 410,000 customers were affected by the outages.
Juan Saca, Luma’s president and chief executive, stated that over 1,500 employees were working to restore power to the affected areas. Puerto Rico has faced similar challenges in the past, with hurricanes causing significant damage to the power grid.
Ernesto is the fifth named Atlantic storm of the season, following Hurricane Beryl which struck the Caribbean and the Texas Gulf Coast last month. The increase in major hurricanes has been attributed to climate change, with experts warning of more powerful storms and heavier rainfall in the future.
As Ernesto approaches Bermuda, residents and authorities are urged to take necessary precautions and prepare for the impact of the hurricane. Stay tuned for updates on the storm’s path and potential consequences for the region.
