Hurricane Ernesto leaves more than a million Puerto Ricans without electricity.

The passage of Hurricane Ernesto north of Puerto Rico has left more than a million citizens without electricity, marking a new chapter in an already complicated hurricane season. With maximum sustained winds of 120 kilometers per hour, the weather phenomenon has forced authorities to activate emergency protocols on the island. As the storm moves northwest at a speed of 26 kilometers per hour, the situation is becoming increasingly critical. Since the early hours of the morning, LUMA Energy, the company responsible for electricity transmission and distribution in Puerto Rico, reported that more than 318,000 customers were without power, affecting approximately 950,000 people. Unfortunately, this number is expected to rise as the storm continues its path, impacting more areas of the territory. The situation has led to the closure of several roads due to flooding, further complicating rescue and aid efforts. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States has issued tropical storm alerts for the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as for the Puerto Rican islands of Vieques and Culebra. The combination of heavy rain and gusty winds raises fears of severe flooding, which could jeopardize the most vulnerable communities. The NHC has emphasized the need for precautions, as the impact of Ernesto could be devastating. This is the third time a hurricane has formed in this Atlantic season, which began on June 1. So far, five tropical storms have been recorded, of which Beryl, Debby, and Ernesto have intensified into hurricanes. Beryl, in particular, reached a category five on the Saffir-Simpson scale, leaving destruction and loss of life in its wake in the Caribbean and the United States, raising concerns about the potential strength of Ernesto. LUMA Energy's response is being carried out under a strict Emergency Response Plan, prioritizing the restoration of service in hospitals and other critical facilities. The company has assured that its personnel is actively monitoring power outages and that field inspections will begin as soon as conditions are safe. However, many citizens are on edge, concerned about the duration of the blackout and the implications it will have on their well-being. The situation is further complicated by the fact that many households in Puerto Rico were already facing economic difficulties prior to Ernesto's arrival. The lack of electricity affects not only the comfort of daily life but also the preservation of food and medications. Local authorities are in constant cooperation with LUMA and other government agencies to provide the necessary support to the affected population. As the storm progresses, citizens are urged to stay informed through official channels and to follow the recommendations of authorities. Social media and news outlets are vital tools for disseminating accurate and timely information, especially during times of crisis. Caution and preparedness are essential to face whatever the storm may bring in the coming hours. It is important to note that the impact of hurricanes in Puerto Rico is not only physical but also emotional. The island, still recovering from the devastation caused by previous hurricanes, faces the challenge of maintaining resilience in the face of each new adversity. The community comes together in solidarity efforts, supporting those in greatest need during times like this. As the day progresses, all eyes are on Ernesto's trajectory and its evolution. Expectations are uncertain, but what is certain is that the Puerto Rican community will once again demonstrate its ability to unite and face the challenges ahead together. Preparation and effective response will be key to minimizing damage and ensuring that, once again, the island rises from the ashes of adversity.