Hurricane Ernesto is set to hit Bermuda with life-threatening floods, storm surges, and 100 mph winds expected on the island within the next 24 hours. The category 2 storm is currently moving southwest towards Bermuda at 13 mph, with the whole island under a hurricane warning. As much as 15 inches of rain is expected, along with strong hurricane-strength winds. The storm surge is expected to cause significant coastal flooding on Bermuda.
Ernesto is projected to pass over or near Bermuda on Saturday, potentially strengthening before that. The storm will remain a large hurricane and maintain its strength through the weekend. The swells from Ernesto will also affect the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Bahamas, and could even be felt on the U.S. East Coast, causing dangerous surf and rip currents. National Weather Service offices in the eastern U.S. are warning beach-goers to stay out of the water.
Ernesto has already caused power outages in Puerto Rico, despite not making landfall there. The storm is expected to move north and pass east of Newfoundland on Monday. Residents in affected areas are advised to rush preparations to protect life and property as the dangerous conditions are likely to start Friday.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com