Hurricane Ernesto causes havoc in Puerto Rico and raises serious concerns.

Ernesto, a storm that initially formed in the Atlantic Ocean, has intensified in recent hours and has become a hurricane north of Puerto Rico. With sustained winds of 120 kilometers per hour, the weather phenomenon is generating significant concerns in the region, especially in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, where severe flooding is expected. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the weather situation has led local authorities to issue tropical storm alerts, while the population prepares to face the consequences of the hurricane. Ernesto's trajectory is taking it northwest at a speed of 26 kilometers per hour. As it moves away from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, weather conditions are expected to continue deteriorating, which could result in flash floods and other dangers associated with wind and rain. In this regard, the NHC has emphasized the importance of residents in affected areas staying alert for updates and preparing for possible evacuations. So far, the storm has left hundreds of people in shelters set up by Puerto Rican authorities. The Department of Family has reported that at least 375 individuals have sought refuge in 72 shelters distributed across various municipalities of the island. Heavy rains and winds have caused rivers to overflow, trees to collapse, and utility poles to fall, leading to at least 40 roads being blocked by landslides and water. The immediate impact of Ernesto has been devastating in certain areas, with Vieques and Culebra reporting particularly adverse conditions. The NHC maintains its alert for these islands, warning residents about the dangers of the situation. Local administration faces a monumental challenge as it attempts to coordinate rescue efforts and ensure that communities are protected. At the federal level, U.S. President Joe Biden has acted quickly in response to the crisis. In an effort to help Puerto Rico cope with the aftermath of the hurricane, Biden signed an emergency declaration that allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate response efforts. This action is designed to minimize the suffering of the local population and ensure that resources are appropriately directed to save lives and protect property. Despite the adversities, some aspects of normalcy are beginning to be restored. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, one of the main entry and exit points for the country, has resumed operations after a significant pause. However, the impact of the storm is still being felt, with more than 145 flights canceled in recent days, leaving many travelers stranded. The Atlantic hurricane season, which began on June 1, is shaping up to be one of the most active in decades. With Ernesto being the third hurricane of the season, and forecasts indicating the potential for up to 25 storms and 13 hurricanes to form, meteorological authorities are on constant alert. Residents of the region must remain vigilant and prepared, as weather conditions can change rapidly. The lessons from recent past events remain fresh in the minds of Puerto Ricans, who are still recovering from the effects of previous hurricanes. The community is coming together in an effort to help and protect the most vulnerable, as well as to stay informed about recommendations from meteorological experts and local authorities. Preparation and solidarity are key elements in facing this new challenge. Meanwhile, the situation on the ground continues to evolve. Emergency authorities have urged the population to follow recommendations and not underestimate the strength of Ernesto. With a combination of torrential rain and hurricane-force winds, the risk to life and property remains high. In this context, the resilience of the community is being tested once again, as Hurricane Ernesto is expected to continue its path toward new areas.