Cyclone Ernesto leaves devastation in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands after intense flooding.

The passage of Tropical Cyclone Ernesto through Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands has left a devastating landscape marked by widespread flooding and heavy rains. According to the preliminary report from the National Weather Service (NWS), the main threat posed by Ernesto was the intense rainfall that occurred as it passed, wreaking havoc in various regions of the island. Authorities have urged the population to remain vigilant and to follow recommendations to avoid further incidents. During the night of Tuesday, August 13, Ernesto's rain bands began to intensify, quickly dumping more than four inches of water in the Virgin Islands, as well as in Vieques and Culebra. The situation became critical when, after the first hours of rain, eastern Puerto Rico was also affected, with towns like Maunabo accumulating more than three inches in short periods, triggering flash floods in several areas. The NWS has reported that total precipitation in the affected areas ranges from 5 to 10 inches, with some locations in Puerto Rico recording accumulations exceeding 10 inches. This amount of rain has been sufficient for several rivers to overflow their banks, endangering nearby communities and complicating the situation on the ground, where landslides have begun to be reported in the inland municipalities. As Ernesto moved north on Wednesday, August 14, weather conditions began to improve slightly; however, several rivers in Puerto Rico remained above flood levels until Thursday, August 15. This situation has raised concerns about the safety of people living near bodies of water, many of whom have had to be evacuated to ensure their well-being. Winds have also been felt strongly during Ernesto's passage; the strongest gust recorded reached 86 miles per hour on Culebrita Island, Culebra, while sustained tropical storm winds and gusts of up to 74 mph were reported at the Roosevelt Road weather station. The impact of these winds has caused trees, power lines, and roofs to be damaged in various areas, leaving many communities without electricity and with significant material damage. The response from local authorities has been swift, with emergency teams working tirelessly to address the needs of those affected. However, the work is arduous and faces challenges posed by the conditions on the ground, which are still compromised by recent rains. It is vital for the population to follow the instructions of the authorities and remain attentive to updates about the weather situation. In the midst of this adversity, Puerto Ricans have shown remarkable resilience; solidarity among neighbors has been evident, with many offering help to those who have lost belongings or find themselves in vulnerable situations. The community has responded to the crisis with a spirit of unity, reminding us that in times of difficulty, collaboration is essential to overcome challenges. However, the lessons of past natural disasters still resonate in the memories of the island's residents. Experts have emphasized the need for more robust infrastructure and drainage systems that can withstand extreme rainfall, such as that experienced with Ernesto. This highlights the importance of planning and investing in long-term solutions that not only mitigate the impact of natural phenomena but also aid in the recovery of affected communities. As residents begin to assess the damage and restore their homes, the NWS will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on potential systems that may affect the region in the near future. The experience of Ernesto has made clear that, although conditions improve, the effects of persistent rains and flooding can last much longer, requiring ongoing attention and resources for recovery and rebuilding. The passage of Ernesto is a stark reminder of Puerto Rico's vulnerability to natural phenomena. Collaboration among the community, government, and non-governmental organizations will be essential in facing the challenges ahead and building a safer, more resilient future. As Puerto Ricans rise once again, hope and determination seem to be the keys to moving forward toward recovery.