Wednesday, August 14, 2024 Tropical Storm Ernesto , currently swirling through the Caribbean Sea, is on the cusp of becoming a hurricane. The storm’s intensifying winds and severe weather conditions are prompting widespread alerts and preparations across Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. As of 2:30 PM on August 14, Ernesto was located near 19.
5°N, 66.5°W, with maximum sustained winds of 60 knots (approximately 111 km/h), just shy of hurricane strength. The storm is moving northwest at 14 knots, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPC) of NOAA.
Severe Weather Forecast Forecasters predict Ernesto will rapidly intensify into a hurricane within the next 12 hours. The storm’s rapid strengthening could see its winds reach up to 185 km/h, potentially escalating into a Category 1 hurricane. This intensification could bring life-threatening conditions, including significant storm surge and heavy rainfall.
Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are expected to experience dangerous weather, including heavy rainfall leading to flash floods and mudslides. The storm’s swells are anticipated to create life-threatening surf and rip currents across various Caribbean destinations, including the Dominican Republic, Turks and Caicos, and the Bahamas. Coastal areas are advised to remain vigilant.
The storm’s exact path remains uncertain, but there is a potential risk for Bermuda later in the week. Ernesto’s movement could also impact th.