by Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN)—Tropical Storm Ernesto is strengthening as it moves through the northern Leeward Islands. Recent satellite imagery shows the storm developing characteristic banding features.
At 11 a.m., TS Ernesto was 55 miles west of Antigua, with 50-mile-per-hour wind speeds and a pressure of 1,003 millibars. The storm is advancing west-northwest at 18 miles per hour, though its forward speed has decreased.
Authorities in St. Kitts and Nevis has issued a flash flood warning for the Federation as Tropical Storm Ernesto continues to strengthen as it passes through the Caribbean region.
A small craft advisory is in effect, as the sea conditions are expected to worsen throughout the day.
Citizens and residents are urged to remove vehicles or debris from ghauts and waterways in preparation for the expected 4 to 6 inches of rain.
In response to Ernesto’s intensification, hurricane watches have been issued for the U.S. and British Virgin Islands and the eastern tip of Puerto Rico. These watches indicate the potential for the storm to reach hurricane strength. Residents in these areas should prepare for possible hurricane conditions, including strong winds and heavy rainfall.
The storm’s impact may extend beyond the immediate areas under warning. It is essential to recognise that significant weather effects could occur outside the forecast cone.
Forecasts predict that Ernesto could bring heavy rainfall to eastern Puerto Rico, with totals ranging from six to eight inches and localised amounts possibly exceeding eight inches. This rainfall could result in flooding, leading to flood watches for affected areas. Residents are advised to monitor local conditions and prepare for potential flooding.
Ernesto is projected to continue intensifying over the North Atlantic and could approach Bermuda as a hurricane by the weekend. Bermuda residents should stay informed and follow updates for the latest information on the storm’s potential impact.
