Ernesto's Fury: Power Outages and Flooding in Puerto Rico

Hurricane Ernesto has caused significant power outages and flooding across Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. The storm, which strengthened to a hurricane on Wednesday, is projected to become a major storm en route to Bermuda. Officials urge residents to prepare for extended outages and severe weather conditions.

Hurricane Ernesto unleashed torrential rain across Puerto Rico on Wednesday, leaving nearly half of the US territory's residents without power as it moved towards Bermuda.

The storm, currently around 225 miles northwest of San Juan, Puerto Rico, carries winds of 75 mph and is moving northwest at 16 mph. Predictions suggest Ernesto could become a major hurricane within 48 hours.

In response to widespread flooding and fallen trees, Puerto Rican officials have closed schools and government agencies, cancelled numerous flights, and evacuated residents from high-risk areas. Power restoration efforts are underway, but full recovery remains uncertain.

(With inputs from agencies.)