San Juan, Puerto Rico — Tropical Storm Ernesto has formed near the Lesser Antilles, prompting widespread warnings across the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The storm, which developed Monday, is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding to the Leeward Islands and Puerto Rico through Wednesday.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Ernesto is the fifth named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Currently located east of the Lesser Antilles, Ernesto is moving west-northwest at 28 mph with sustained winds of 40 mph. Meteorologists warn that Ernesto could intensify into a hurricane as it tracks through the region.
Tropical storm warnings have been issued from Guadeloupe to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, where conditions are expected to deteriorate over the next 36 hours. Residents in the affected areas are urged to prepare for potential power outages and flash flooding.
Ernesto is expected to turn northward after passing Puerto Rico, with forecasters predicting it could strengthen into a hurricane, possibly threatening Bermuda later in the week. The storm is not currently expected to impact the U.S. East Coast.
Local authorities in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are closely monitoring the situation, advising residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
