Tropical Storm Ernesto became a hurricane again on Sunday as it moved away from Bermuda and into the northeastern Atlantic. It had maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, making it a Category 1 hurricane. Ernesto is expected to strengthen further before weakening into a post-tropical cyclone by Tuesday, passing near southeastern Newfoundland.
The storm’s powerful swells have caused dangerous rip currents along the U.S. East Coast and parts of the Canadian Atlantic coast. The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood advisory and warned of a high risk for rip currents, which could pose dangers to swimmers.
Hurricane Ernesto Brings Dangerous Rip Currents, Flooding, and Damage to East Coast and Atlantic RegionsIn New Jersey, a fisherman was rescued after being washed off a jetty, and several other rescues were reported. In North Carolina, a man drowned in a rip current, and two men drowned in separate incidents in South Carolina. Heavy rains unrelated to the hurricane caused flooding and emergencies in parts of Connecticut, including road closures and a minor mudslide.
Ernesto’s rough surf led to the collapse of a beach house on North Carolina’s Outer Banks and caused significant damage to oceanfront structures. On Long Island, New York, high tides forced beach closures and canceled events, including a fireworks show.
Bermuda, previously hit by Ernesto, experienced some power outages and damage but has largely recovered. Power has been restored to most areas, and businesses and schools are resuming normal operations. Puerto Rico, also affected by the storm, has seen progress in power restoration and is reopening schools after delays.
Ernesto’s impact has been severe, with dangerous rip currents, flooding, and structural damage across various regions, prompting ongoing recovery efforts.