Ernesto reached Category 1 hurricane status on Wednesday after hitting Puerto Rico overnight, causing power outages and floods. Early Wednesday, the centre of Tropical Storm Ernesto passed within 40 miles of San Juan, Puerto Rico, bringing strong winds and heavy rain.
LUMA, a service provider, reported that over 728,000 customers, nearly half the island, are without power. The eastern and central regions are the hardest hit. LUMA clarified that downed power lines, not infrastructure, caused the outages. It will take 24 to 48 hours to assess damage before giving a repair timeline.
High winds, recorded at speeds of 50 mph or more, are the primary cause of outages, according to Juan Saca, LUMA Energy’s president and CEO. “Vegetation under power lines in Puerto Rico poses a significant issue. Tree movements between lines can easily cause outages,” Saca stated.
Saca expressed confidence in LUMA’s preparedness to restore power. Additionally, Puerto Rican officials reported that 235,000 customers lack water, and over 400 people are in shelters. Authorities urged residents to leave homes only if necessary. Many villages are isolated due to high river levels and closed routes. Blood donations are requested due to low supplies. Twenty-three hospitals are using generators, and 80 flights have been cancelled.
By midday Wednesday, Naguabo, Puerto Rico, recorded the highest rainfall total at 9.6 inches. While tropical storm warnings for Puerto Rico and the Caribbean islands have been cancelled, flash flooding remains a concern due to heavy rain ending late Wednesday afternoon.
A hurricane watch is now in effect for Bermuda. On Culebra island, sustained winds of 68 mph and a gust of 86 mph were reported. The Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Puerto Rico recorded sustained winds of 48 mph and a gust of 74 mph.
Ernesto is forecasted to strengthen between Thursday and Friday, potentially becoming a Category 3 hurricane by Friday morning with winds up to 115 mph.
Ernesto is expected to approach Bermuda from Friday night into early Saturday as either a low-end Category 3 or high-end Category 2 hurricane, bringing wind and rain.
The East Coast will experience high surf and rip currents through the weekend as Ernesto moves parallel but away from the coast.
President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration for Puerto Rico on Tuesday night.
Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi urged residents to stay home starting Tuesday evening, as tropical storm-force winds were forecasted to reach the island. Total rainfall could reach 10 inches in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
How strong is Hurricane Ernesto?
Ernesto has become a Category 1 hurricane.
How many people are without power in Puerto Rico?
More than 728,000 customers are without power in Puerto Rico.
What caused the power outages in Puerto Rico?
High winds, recorded at speeds of 50 mph or more, caused the power outages.
Are there any concerns for flash flooding in Puerto Rico?
Yes, flash flooding remains a concern due to heavy rain.
What preparations are being made for Bermuda?
A hurricane watch has been issued for Bermuda as Ernesto strengthens.