Ernesto made landfall in Bermuda as a hurricane on Saturday, bringing hazardous weather to the island before weakening to a tropical storm. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 75 mph which had calmed slightly to 70 mph as it moved away from the island. However, forecasters warned that Ernesto could regain hurricane status as it moves toward Newfoundland. A tropical storm warning is still in effect in Bermuda, with heavy rain expected to cause flash flooding and flooding along the coast. Over 26,000 utility customers are without power in Bermuda, representing about 72% of the island. Although there have not been reports of major damage, emergency services have been on limited patrols due to strong winds. Dangerous beach conditions, including large waves and rip currents, are expected along the East Coast until early next week. New York City officials have closed Queens and Brooklyn beaches to swimming due to concerns about storm-agitated rip currents. Overall, the impact of Ernesto on Bermuda and surrounding areas is being closely monitored for potential further damage and disruptions due to the storm.
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Ernesto downgrades to tropical storm as it exits Bermuda and heads into the open Atlantic
