Hurricane Ernesto intensifies as it heads toward Bermuda, with winds reaching 100mph. The storm previously left over 410,000 customers without power in Puerto Rico.
Ernesto is expected to strengthen further, potentially becoming a major hurricane by Friday. The US National Hurricane Center warns of destructive waves and significant coastal flooding.
As Bermuda prepares for impact, forecasters remind us climate change fuels more intense storms like Ernesto. In Puerto Rico, Luma Energy has deployed 1,500 employees to restore electricity, a daunting task given the island’s history of hurricane-related power grid failures.
Notably, Hurricane Fiona knocked out power for almost a month in 2022, affecting 80% of homes and businesses. Ernesto is the fifth named Atlantic storm this season, with the North Atlantic on track to see an above-average number of major hurricanes this year.
Climate change isn’t increasing the number of hurricanes, but it’s making the most powerful ones more likely. As Ernesto approaches, Bermuda residents must take necessary precautions. Officials urge everyone to stay vigilant and prepare for the storm’s impact.
In addition, the Royal Navy and British troops are on standby to assist with evacuations and relief efforts. Bermuda’s Premier, David Burt, has activated the island’s emergency operations center. With Ernesto’s expected landfall on Saturday, residents are advised to stock up on supplies, secure outdoor furniture and decorations, and take necessary precautions.
