Tropical storm Ernesto threatens Puerto Rico with strong winds and heavy rains.

Tropical Storm Ernesto is moving forcefully toward Puerto Rico, intensifying concerns among its citizens and local authorities. During a recent press conference, Puerto Rico's Governor, Pedro Pierluisi, reported that winds from the storm are expected to peak around midnight, with effects lasting until the following day. Warnings are not limited to winds, as maritime conditions are described as "very bad," posing a significant risk to navigation and safety along the coasts. Ernesto, classified by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States, has sustained winds of up to 95 kilometers per hour, leading to the issuance of a hurricane watch for the Virgin Islands and the Puerto Rican islands of Vieques and Culebra. Puerto Rico, for its part, is under a tropical storm warning, indicating that adverse conditions are rapidly approaching. Storm projections indicate that Puerto Rico may experience severe flooding due to a combination of high swells and intense rainfall. Between 6 and 10 inches of rain are expected inland, while coastal areas anticipate breaking waves that could reach heights of 5 meters. These conditions could be devastating for areas already vulnerable to flooding. In response to the imminent threat, island authorities have closed maritime ports and suspended ferry services to Vieques and Culebra. Additionally, Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport has felt the direct impact of the storm, with at least 18 flights canceled by local and international airlines, leaving many travelers stranded and generating anxiety among citizens. Preparation has been key during these critical moments. From the closure of schools and universities to the early shutdown of shopping centers, Puerto Ricans are taking steps to ensure they are ready to face Ernesto's onslaught. Long lines at gas stations and supermarkets are a common sight, as residents seek to stock up on food and fuel, a basic necessity given the uncertainty of the coming days. The Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO) has attempted to alleviate concerns about fuel shortages, assuring that there is enough supply on the island. However, anxiety persists, especially after recent events related to Hurricane Fiona, which left many without electricity for an extended period. The question lingering in the air is how long the affected communities will remain without service. Meanwhile, Governor Pierluisi has confirmed that shelters are set up for those in need of refuge, with 42 people already sheltered in various municipalities. Authorities are urging citizens to prepare for potential power outages, which could further complicate the situation. FEMA has warned of the possibility of "large power outages," a reminder of the challenges that the island's electrical infrastructure still faces. For its part, LUMA Energy, responsible for electrical transmission, has stated that they are ready to manage the situation, although they have avoided committing to a specific timeline for service restoration. Its president, Juan Saca, indicated that the duration of any outage will depend on the intensity of the weather, leaving many in uncertainty. The situation is equally concerning in other Caribbean islands that have been battered by the storm. Antigua and Guadeloupe are already feeling the effects of Ernesto, with flooded roads and compromised electrical systems. Tropical storm alerts have been extended to numerous islands in the region, generating a sense of shared vulnerability in the face of nature's fury. As Ernesto advances, the resilience of Puerto Ricans will be tested once again. The lessons learned from past hurricanes are on the minds of many, and although the community is accustomed to facing these challenges, each storm brings new uncertainties and risks. In this context, unity and preparation will be essential to move forward, as the storm is expected to pass and the waters to calm. Vigilance continues, and hope for better days remains strong in the hearts of Puerto Ricans.