Hurricane Ernesto Downgraded but Still Brings Severe Threat to Bermuda

Storm Downgrade and Impact

Hurricane Ernesto has been downgraded to a Category 1 storm as it approaches Bermuda, but it continues to pose significant risks to the British island territory. US National Hurricane Center reported early Saturday that the storm, with maximum sustained winds of 90 mph (150 kph), remains dangerous with potential for powerful winds, a severe storm surge, and flooding.

Current Situation and Forecast

As of 11 p.m. Atlantic Standard Time on Friday, Ernesto’s eye was approximately 65 miles (105 km) south-southwest of Bermuda. The slow-moving storm, traveling at 13 mph (20 kph) north-northeast, is expected to bring heavy rainfall, with up to 9 inches (225 mm) forecasted for Bermuda. Rainbands from the storm began affecting the island on Friday afternoon.

Preparations and Regional Impact

Bermuda’s national security minister, Michael Weeks, emphasized the seriousness of the storm, urging residents to take precautions. Emergency responders are stationed at key locations, and power outages have affected 5,400 customers on the island. Swells from Ernesto are also impacting the Bahamas, parts of the eastern US coast, and have led to beach closures in New York due to dangerous rip currents and high surf.

Hurricane Ernesto, now a Category 1 storm, is approaching Bermuda with powerful winds and heavy rain. The storm has already caused power outages and beach closures along the eastern US coast, with significant impacts expected on the island throughout Saturday.