Hurricane Ernesto Hits Bermuda, Causing Power Outages and Warnings of Severe Floods and Storms
Hurricane Ernesto struck the Bermuda archipelago early Saturday morning, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, resulting in power outages across most of the Atlantic islands. Meteorologists issued warnings of a severe storm and the potential for flooding.
After bringing heavy rainfall to Puerto Rico earlier in the week, the hurricane made landfall in Bermuda at 08:30 GMT, with accompanying wind speeds of 137 kilometers per hour, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center.
The center’s statement indicated that “significant coastal flooding in Bermuda” is expected, warning of “massive and destructive waves.” Rainfall levels in Bermuda are projected to range from 150 to 225 mm.
The center warned that “such amounts of rainfall could cause flash floods, posing a threat to the lives of residents in the island’s low-lying areas.”
The hurricane has been classified as a category two storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale, which ranges into five categories. It is expected to drop 225 mm of rain in some areas of the archipelago, located more than a thousand kilometers from the eastern coast of the United States.
Belco, the electricity company, reported that the storm caused power outages affecting approximately 26,000 subscribers, accounting for more than 70% of the company’s customers on the island, which is home to about 64,000 residents.
Videos circulating on social media showed downed trees blocking roads, damaged power lines, and water-filled streets.
In preparation for the storm, fishermen pulled their boats from the sea, while island residents fortified their windows and stocked up on food supplies.
“We should not underestimate this storm,” said Minister of National Security Michael Weeks, following a meeting with emergency management officials, as reported by “The Royal Gazette.” He added, “All necessary precautions must be taken to protect lives and property. Stay in your homes.”
Some roads were closed on Friday, bus and ferry services were suspended, and L.F. Wade International Airport announced a halt to its operations until Sunday.
According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Ernesto is moving northeast and is expected to reach around Newfoundland or eastern Canada by Monday night.
