Hurricane Ernesto Threatens Bermuda After Devastating Puerto Rico

Hurricane Ernesto, a Category 1 storm, is heading towards Bermuda after causing significant damage in Puerto Rico, leaving 470,000 without power. The storm, packing 85 mph winds, is expected to reach Bermuda by Friday, prompting warnings of dangerous storm surge and heavy rains.

Hurricane Ernesto barreled toward Bermuda on Thursday, threatening the island with dangerous storm surge and heavy rains after leaving hundreds of thousands of Puerto Ricans without power. Positioned 600 miles southwest and moving north, the Category 1 storm packed winds of 85 miles per hour, the National Hurricane Center reported.

Under a hurricane warning, Bermuda braced for Ernesto's impact late Friday. Forecasts predict the storm will bring prolonged strong winds, flash flooding, and a perilous storm surge by Saturday. Residents were urged to complete all preparations to protect life and property, according to the hurricane center.

After becoming a hurricane on Wednesday, Ernesto lashed Puerto Rico with heavy rains and fierce winds, causing widespread flooding, downed powerlines, and extensive damage. As of Thursday morning, 470,000 homes and businesses remained without electricity. The storm is expected to remain west of the U.S. East Coast but will generate dangerous surf and rip currents across the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)