Tropical Storm Ernesto Threatens Caribbean

Ernesto Expected to Strengthen to Hurricane

Ernesto, a tropical storm that formed in the Caribbean Sea on Tuesday afternoon, is expected to strengthen to a hurricane as it approaches the Virgin Islands, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding to the region. The NHC has issued a tropical storm warning for the Virgin Islands, as well as parts of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Residents in these areas are urged to prepare for the storm and take precautions to stay safe.

Ernesto's Path and Forecast

As of Tuesday afternoon, Ernesto was located about 115 miles (185 kilometers) south-southeast of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The storm is moving west-northwest at 14 mph (22 km/h) and is expected to continue on this track for the next few days. The NHC predicts that Ernesto will reach hurricane strength by Wednesday evening and could make landfall in the Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico on Thursday. The storm is then expected to turn north and head towards the Bahamas and Florida.

Impacts of Ernesto

Ernesto is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding to the Caribbean region. The NHC has warned that the storm could produce rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches, with isolated maximum amounts of 12 inches or more. The storm's winds could reach speeds of up to 74 mph (119 km/h). These conditions could cause significant damage to infrastructure and property, as well as pose a risk to human life. Residents in the affected areas are urged to take precautions to stay safe, including securing loose objects, stocking up on food and water, and having a plan in place to evacuate if necessary.