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By Kevon Browne
ST. KITTS AND NEVIS (WINN) — Tropical Storm Ernesto is strengthening as it moves across the northern Leeward Islands. Recent satellite imagery shows the storm is developing characteristic banding features.
At 11 am, TS Ernesto was located 55 miles west of Antigua with winds of 50 mph and a pressure of 1,003 millibars. The storm was moving toward the west-northwest at 18 mph, but its forward speed has slowed.
As Tropical Storm Ernesto moves through the Caribbean and continues to strengthen, authorities in St. Kitts and Nevis have issued a flash flood warning for the federation.
A small craft warning has been issued as sea conditions are expected to deteriorate throughout the day.
Authorities urged people and residents to remove vehicles or debris from villages and waterways to prepare for the expected 4 to 6 inches of rain.
In response to the intensification of Hurricane Ernesto, hurricane watches have been issued for the United States and the British Virgin Islands, as well as the eastern tip of Puerto Rico. These watches indicate that the storm could reach hurricane strength. Residents in these areas should prepare for the possibility of hurricane-force winds, including strong winds and heavy rains.
Storm impacts may extend beyond the warning area. It is important to recognize that significant weather impacts may occur outside the forecast area.
Forecasts indicate that Ernesto could bring heavy rainfall to eastern Puerto Rico, with total rainfall of 6 to 8 inches, with localized rainfall exceeding 8 inches. The rainfall could cause flash flooding, and flood warnings would be issued for affected areas. Residents are advised to monitor local conditions closely and prepare for possible flooding.
Ernesto is forecast to continue strengthening over the North Atlantic and could hit Bermuda as a hurricane over the weekend. Bermuda residents should stay informed and monitor the latest information regarding the storm’s potential impacts.
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