Hurricane Ernesto is approaching Bermuda, prompting evacuations and urgent preparations.

Hurricane Ernesto is advancing powerfully toward Bermuda, generating concern among residents and authorities of this British territory. This weather system, classified as a category two hurricane, was located on Friday approximately 345 kilometers south-southwest of the island, with sustained winds of 155 kilometers per hour. With its imminent arrival, Bermuda is preparing to face the severe conditions anticipated, which include strong winds and flooding. Bermuda's authorities have begun implementing emergency measures, announcing the closure of government offices and the opening of shelters for residents. National Security Minister Michael Weeks has called on the population to accelerate their preparations, emphasizing that time is running out. This highlights the seriousness with which weather warnings are being taken and the urgency to protect lives and property. Ernesto is expected to gain strength as it approaches the islands, and tropical storm conditions are anticipated to start affecting the local population from Friday afternoon. Weather projections indicate that the island could receive between 15 to 30 centimeters of rain, with possible accumulations of up to 38 centimeters in specific areas. The extent of the hurricane is considerable, with hurricane-force winds extending up to 110 kilometers from its center, amplifying the risk to the island. With the imminent arrival of the hurricane, public transport services have been suspended, and the airport is expected to close on Friday night. Grocery stores are also taking precautions, preparing to close their doors, reflecting concerns about supply and the safety of the population. This situation is particularly critical in a territory where storms are not frequent, although when they do occur, they can be devastating. Historically, Bermuda has been fortunate compared to other areas of the Caribbean, as only 11 tropical storms have made landfall in its vicinity since 1850. Nonetheless, the fact that the eye of a hurricane is approaching the island so dangerously is cause for alarm. The island's infrastructure, characterized by solid construction, offers some protection, but the magnitude of Ernesto could pose significant risks. Hurricane Ernesto has already made its mark on the northeastern Caribbean, where, after passing through Puerto Rico as a tropical storm, it left hundreds of thousands of residents without electricity or water. In Puerto Rico, over 245,000 customers are still without power, and a similar number are facing water shortages. The conditions of extreme heat only exacerbate the situation, making recovery even more critical for those affected. Andrés Cabrera, a resident of the coastal city of Carolina in Puerto Rico, has shared his difficult experience, describing the daily struggle to cope with the lack of basic services. His situation is not isolated; many rely solely on the wind to cool off, with no access to generators or solar panels. This testimony highlights the vulnerability of the population to the impacts of such climatic phenomena. Authorities in Puerto Rico are working to restore electricity to 90% of affected customers by Sunday, although they have not established a clear timeline for full restoration. This logistical challenge adds to the pressure of maintaining essential services amid a climate-induced crisis. Ernesto thus becomes the fifth named storm and the third hurricane of the Atlantic season, which has already been forecasted to be above average. With ocean waters warming, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warns of an active season, with forecasts suggesting between 17 and 25 storms, including the possibility of several significant hurricanes. As Bermuda prepares to face the imminent arrival of Ernesto, the community unites in an effort to safeguard their lives and properties. In a broader context, the hurricane season underscores the importance of preparedness and resilience, not only in the islands but in all regions vulnerable to these natural disasters. The accumulated experience from previous hurricanes will serve as a guide to confront what appears to be yet another challenge in this busy year of extreme weather phenomena.