Hurricane Ernesto is expected to bring life-threatening floods, storm surges, and 100 mph winds to Bermuda, with dangerous conditions likely to start on Friday. The category 2 storm is currently 255 miles south-west of the North Atlantic island and moving at a speed of 13 mph. The entire island is under a hurricane warning, and as much as 15 inches of rain is expected.
Hurricane-strength winds are forecasted to extend 70 miles from the storm’s center, while tropical storm-force winds will be felt 265 miles away. The storm is expected to pass over or near Bermuda on Saturday, with potential strengthening before then. Ernesto is predicted to remain a large hurricane and maintain its strength through the weekend.
A dangerous storm surge is expected to cause significant coastal flooding on Bermuda, with large and destructive waves near the coast. The storm’s effects will also be felt in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Bahamas, and possibly on the U.S. East Coast, bringing life-threatening surf and rip currents. A satellite image shows Hurricane Ernesto approaching Bermuda.
Beach-goers are advised to be cautious and stay out of the water if advised by lifeguards. The storm has already caused power outages in Puerto Rico, and it is expected to move north and pass east of Newfoundland on Monday. National Weather Service offices in the eastern U.S. are also warning of the potential dangers posed by Hurricane Ernesto.
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