Hurricane Ernesto Heads to Bermuda After Devastating Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Hurricane Ernesto is advancing toward Bermuda, having already caused widespread power and water outages for hundreds of thousands in Puerto Rico. As the U.S. territory grapples with extreme heat, health concerns are escalating. With maximum sustained winds of 85 mph, Ernesto is expected to pass near Bermuda on Saturday, prompting a hurricane warning. National Security Minister Michael Weeks emphasized the urgency for residents to prepare, recalling the severe consequences of past complacency. Forecasts indicate that Ernesto could strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane before weakening as it nears Bermuda, where rainfall could reach up to 12 inches in isolated areas. The National Hurricane Center has classified the storm as a significant threat, with guidance suggesting it will remain a large hurricane as it approaches the island. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico is experiencing southern winds that exacerbate the heat, raising alarms among officials. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory, warning of dangerously hot and humid conditions. Many residents, particularly those who endured the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017, are anxious about their health and safety, especially as power restoration timelines remain uncertain. With over 40% of Puerto Rico's population living in poverty, many lack access to generators or solar panels. Luma Energy, the private company responsible for power distribution, reported no catastrophic damage but could not provide a timeline for restoring electricity. Operations director Alejandro González stated it would be irresponsible to predict a specific restoration date, leaving residents in a precarious situation as they brace for the storm's impact.