Philadelphia, PA – Hurricane Ernesto, now a hurricane located just northwest of Puerto Rico, is expected to have significant impacts along the U.S. East Coast despite remaining well offshore. Coastal communities in New Jersey and Delaware are bracing for dangerous rip currents and high surf, which are forecasted to affect the shoreline as early as Friday and extend into the weekend.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service, the storm’s powerful swells could lead to severe beach erosion and coastal flooding, particularly in the bays of New Jersey and Delaware. Beachgoers are strongly urged to heed lifeguards’ warnings and avoid entering the water during this period.
The Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean nations are also on high alert for surf and rip currents generated by Ernesto, which could pose life-threatening conditions. While Bermuda is likely to experience direct impacts from the hurricane later in the week, residents along the U.S. East Coast are advised to monitor the situation closely as the storm progresses.
Authorities emphasize the importance of staying informed through official channels and preparing for potential emergencies, as the effects of Hurricane Ernesto could be widespread and severe.