Hurricane Ernesto Causes Severe Damage in Puerto Rico

Tropical Storm Ernesto strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane on Wednesday, causing severe damage in Puerto Rico with torrential rains, flash flooding, and power outages affecting nearly half of the island’s population. The storm, which saw maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, led to school closures and flight cancellations, and knocked down trees and power lines. As Ernesto moves northwest, it is projected to become a major Category 3 hurricane by Friday, with potential impacts on Bermuda and hazardous surf conditions along the U.S. East Coast. While tropical storm warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands have been lifted, the risk of flash floods and mudslides remains. President Biden has approved federal assistance for Puerto Rico, and cruise lines have adjusted itineraries to avoid the storm. The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor Ernesto as it heads towards Bermuda, where a hurricane watch is currently in effect.