Bermuda is being battered by Hurricane Ernesto as it gradually retreats

Bermuda was anticipated to receive additional hours of punishment as the storm advanced northward at a mere 9 mph (15 kph), with hurricane-force winds extending 70 miles (110 km) from the center and tropical storm-force winds emitting 240 miles (390 km).

Upon the storm’s eye passing overhead, Bermuda residents reported a brief respite.

A maximal sustained wind speed of 80 mph (130 kph) was present in the vicinity of the eye. The U.S. weather service advised that it would continue to intensify for an additional 48 hours, following which it is anticipated to diminish.

In the previous 24 hours, the Bermuda Weather Service reported that the south and east of the island experienced high seas that likely reached 35 feet, and that 5.5 inches (140 mm) of rain had fallen.

According to the U.S. weather service, flash flood conditions could result from rainfall of up to 9 inches (225 mm). Additionally, a hazardous storm surge was anticipated to cause substantial coastal flooding throughout the archipelago, which is situated over 600 miles (966 km) from the South Carolina coast and has a population of approximately 64,000.

According to the U.S. weather service, the storm’s center is expected to continue its journey away from Bermuda on Saturday and will approach southeastern Newfoundland late on Monday.

Electric utility BELCO reported that the typhoon resulted in nearly island-wide disruptions, with approximately 26,100 of the approximately 36,000 customers without power at 9 a.m. (1300 GMT).

According to BELCO, personnel are anticipated to begin evaluating the electrical grid for damage in the afternoon, when hazardous wind conditions are anticipated to abate.

OCEAN SWELLS

The government had received numerous reports of individuals venturing out in the tempest, according to Michael Weeks, Bermuda’s national security minister. He advised them to remain indoors.

“We have gone through the eye of Hurricane Ernesto, and now the weather is deteriorating again,” he informed the media.

Residents were also advised by BELCO President Wayne Caines to avoid being “lulled into a false sense of security.”

“Reports are coming in about downed poles and power lines, which are extremely dangerous,” Caines asserted. “It’s critical that people avoid these areas and refrain from being on the roads.”

The National Hurricane Center, which is located in Florida, reported that the United States was being affected by the ocean surges generated by Ernesto.

The National Park Service and the city parks of New York have announced that all beaches in the municipalities of Brooklyn and Queens will be closed to swimmers on Saturday and Sunday due to the National Weather Service’s prediction of hazardous rip currents and swells of up to 6 feet, according to the mayor’s office.