Ernesto intensified to a Category 1 hurricane on Sunday night, with the National Hurricane Center cautioning that East Coast beaches face hazardous conditions. Over the past week, the hurricane has led to significant power outages and flooding in Puerto Rico and Bermuda. Currently, Ernesto is situated over the Atlantic, with sustained winds reaching 75 mph.
The NHC forecasts that Ernesto will move across southeastern Newfoundland late Monday into Tuesday morning.
Ernesto is the fifth named storm and the third hurricane of this year’s Atlantic season. It made landfall in Bermuda early on Saturday, causing 7 to 9 inches of rainfall and flooding parts of the island. Although Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory, avoided major damage, it is now approximately 200 miles northeast of the island.
High surf and life-threatening rip currents are still expected along the U.S. East Coast over the next few days.
From Florida to Maine, the entire Atlantic coast is under a high-risk rip current alert on Sunday.
The National Hurricane Center warned of “life-threatening surf and rip current conditions,” which pose dangers to swimmers of all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What category is Hurricane Ernesto?
It is a Category 1 hurricane.
Where did Ernesto cause power outages and flooding?
It caused power outages and flooding in Puerto Rico and Bermuda.
What is the expected path of Hurricane Ernesto?
It is expected to cross southeastern Newfoundland late Monday into Tuesday morning.
Is there a rip current alert for the East Coast?
Yes, the entire Atlantic coast from Florida to Maine is under a high-risk rip current alert.
What are the wind speeds of Hurricane Ernesto?
Ernesto has maximum sustained winds up to 75 mph.