Storm Ernesto causes severe damage in Puerto Rico and increases the risk of flooding.

The intense rains and winds caused by Tropical Storm Ernesto have left a trail of significant damage in several regions of Puerto Rico, leading authorities to close several roads and open shelters for residents in at-risk situations. PR-115, located in the Espinal neighborhood, is facing severe traffic restrictions, raising concerns in the community. Police and Emergency Management personnel are on-site, working hard to assess the situation and ensure the safety of citizens. In Loíza, the situation is also not easy. Seven residents have sought refuge at the Carlos Escobar López school due to the threat of flooding in their homes. Images from the community reflect the distress of these citizens, such as Ana Sofía Escalera, who, due to her health condition, is bedridden in the shelter. The arrival of Manuel Córdova González at the shelter as a precaution highlights the general concern of the population regarding the impact of Ernesto. The municipality of Cayey has also suffered devastation, where strong winds have caused trees to fall, obstructing traffic and increasing the risk of accidents. Authorities have urged residents to take extra precautions and avoid areas prone to landslides or flooding. Emergency services are on alert, and teams are being deployed to respond to incidents as they arise. Meanwhile, at Vicente Acevedo School, a shelter has remained active due to the alert of rising waters from the Río Grande de Manatí. This space has become a lifeline for those who have seen the safety of their homes threatened. Authorities have called on citizens to stay informed and follow safety recommendations. The impact of the storm has also begun to be felt in the economic sector. Businesses in Las Croabas, in Fajardo, have prepared to face potential adverse effects, with one of their main concerns being the possible interruption of electric service. Such inconveniences could further exacerbate the situation, especially in areas that have already suffered severe damage in the past. LUMA Energy crews have mobilized to restore electric service in affected areas, but the road to recovery will be long. The commitment of the authorities and the collective effort of the citizens are vital to mitigate the effects of this storm and for subsequent reconstruction. Access routes, such as PR-431 in Castañer and PR-111 in Utuado, have also been temporarily closed due to the dangers they pose. In the case of PR-431, the impact of water has caused considerable damage, while on PR-111, the presence of downed power lines on the road has created risks of fires and accidents. In light of this alarming situation, security agencies have reiterated their call to citizens to avoid traveling on these roads and seek alternatives. "If it's not an emergency, stay home," is the message that has been widely disseminated, emphasizing the importance of prevention. Residents are beginning to assess the damage to their properties and make recovery plans, although the emotional and physical impact of the storm is still being felt. Local authorities continue to work to provide assistance, but the path to normalcy appears uncertain and complicated. As Puerto Rico strives to recover from the devastation of Storm Ernesto, it is crucial for citizens to remain alert and in contact with authorities to receive updated information and assistance in case of emergencies. The community, which has demonstrated resilience in the past, now faces another challenge, but with mutual support and solidarity, there is hope on the horizon.