Tropical Storm Ernesto Strengthens and Leaves Damage in Puerto Rico
In the current hurricane season in the Atlantic basin, which began on 1 June, five tropical storms have formed: Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby and Ernesto.
Tropical Storm Ernesto’s passage through Puerto Rico has left nearly one million people without electricity service this Wednesday, as well as road closures due to flooding, persistent winds and heavy rainfall, especially on the east side of the island.
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Storm Ernesto Puts Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands on Alert
According to the US National Hurricane Center, winds extend up to 110 miles from the center of the storm and reach the potential for a category 1 hurricane.
Meanwhile, Ernesto is expected to strengthen and it is estimated that within hours it will become a cyclone, which could reach a higher category in a couple of days.
On the other hand, the US agency specified that the tropical storm could leave floods of between four and six inches over the United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.
According to the CNH, six- to eight-inch rainfall totals are expected, with maximum amounts of ten inches, across southeastern Puerto Rico.
The authorities in this territory mobilized the National Guard, suspended classes in public schools and sent home officials whose work was not essential in the face of the arrival of the tropical storm.
In the current hurricane season in the Atlantic basin, which began on 1 June, five tropical storms have formed: Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby and Ernesto.
