Bermuda Gears Up for 36 Hours of Dangerous Winds as Ernesto Approaches
The Category 2 hurricane is approaching Bermuda, with authorities issuing warnings about the serious dangers it presents.
Bermuda began implementing lockdown measures on Aug. 16 as Hurricane Ernesto neared the island.
Authorities stated, “We are facing at least 36 hours of hurricane and tropical storm force winds.”
The situation was described as posing “considerable risk to life and property.”
It was emphasized, “Ignoring these warnings puts both yourself and our emergency personnel in danger.”
Tropical-storm-force winds started affecting Bermuda around 2 p.m. local time. Ernesto was projected to reach the island by 8 a.m. on Aug. 17, with the eye passing over part or potentially all of Bermuda.
Related Stories
It was announced that Bermuda’s airport would close at 8 p.m., followed by the Causeway—connecting the northern part of Bermuda to its center—an hour later.
Shelters across the island were prepared to open.
All public transportation services were halted, and residents were advised that first responders, like ambulances, would not be available if sustained winds exceeded 57 mph.
As of Aug. 16, Hurricane Ernesto displayed minimal signs of weakening, remaining a powerful Category 2 hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
The NHC noted, “Expect strong winds, dangerous storm surge, and life-threatening flooding in Bermuda soon.”
By the NHC’s 5 p.m. advisory, the storm’s center was 125 miles away from the island.
Heavy rainfall was forecasted to accompany the dangerous winds.
The Bermuda Weather Service reported 3.5 inches of rain had fallen on the island by noon on Aug. 16, with Ernesto expected to bring an additional five to eight inches.
It was cautioned, “Don’t be misled by the calm during the eye of the storm passing over us tomorrow. The temporary lull in winds does not mean the danger has passed.”
Weeks warned, “As the eye moves away just west of Bermuda, the winds will rapidly intensify and resume with full force.”
Any outdoor activities were highlighted as posing serious risks to life.
Weeks further stated, “The latter part of the storm will be as intense, if not more so, than the initial phase.”
Following Bermuda, the NHC foresees Ernesto maintaining hurricane status as it moves north.
The forecast indicates a potential close passing to Newfoundland, Canada, by late Aug. 19, without downgrading to a tropical storm until Aug. 20.
