The Bermuda Weather Service has issued a Hurricane Warning as Ernesto approaches the island.
Forecasters project that the storm will grow to Category 3 by Friday afternoon but weaken by Saturday morning as it reaches Bermuda.
According to the Royal Gazette, Bermuda Weather Service Director Michelle Pitcher said tropical-storm-force winds were expected to reach the island by Friday afternoon.
She added that because the storm is expected to pass around 50 miles to the island’s west, it may be able to avoid Category 2 conditions, but urged the public to stay informed, noting that the situation could change.
Meanwhile, Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks called on the public to begin preparations now.
He warned that Ernesto is expected to bring hurricane force winds, rough seas and a high likelihood of power outages.
Urging people not to be complacent, he added, “While Bermuda has been fortunate in recent years to avoid the worst impacts of hurricanes, we have to take each storm seriously and prepare accordingly. It only takes one storm to cause significant damage and disrupt our way of life.”