COLUMBIA, S.C. — Ernesto strengthened during the overnight hours. The storm is expected to become the second major hurricane of the season. It is already the third hurricane of the year. A hurricane warning is in effect for Bermuda as the hurricane begins to approach the area late Friday. Dangerous rip currents are likely along the east coast of the United States.
Hurricane Ernesto was a Category 1 storm Thursday morning. It had winds of 85 mph, along with some stronger gusts. The storm was moving towards the north at 13 mph. Hurricane-force winds extended outward up to 45 miles. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 175 miles from the center of circulation.
A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions are expected within the designated area. Typically, this warning is issued 36 hours before the expected arrival of tropical storm force winds, which can make outdoor preparations hazardous or impossible. As a result, all necessary measures to protect life and property should be completed as quickly as possible in Bermuda.
Rainfall from Ernesto is expected to begin impacting Bermuda later today, with the potential for flash flooding from Friday through the weekend. Residents and visitors should prepare for the possibility of heavy rain and damaging hurricane-force winds.
Even though Ernesto is forecast to remain well offshore from the U.S. East Coast, the storm is expected to generate swells that will reach the area late this week and continue into the weekend.
Beachgoers should be aware of the significant risk of life-threatening surf and rip currents and follow any advisories from lifeguards. Similar conditions are also possible in the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, the Turks and Caicos, and the Bahamas over the next few days.