Hurricane Ernesto: Power Outages and Heavy Flooding Hit Puerto Rico

Hurricane Ernesto caused torrential rain and widespread power outages in Puerto Rico, affecting nearly half of the US territory's customers. As schools and government agencies closed, officials warned residents to prepare for the storm. Ernesto is forecast to strengthen, with its center expected to pass near Bermuda.

Hurricane Ernesto unleashed torrential rain on Puerto Rico, leading to power outages for nearly half of the US territory's customers on Wednesday. The storm is expected to intensify en route to Bermuda.

As of 720 miles south-southwest of Bermuda, Ernesto boasted maximum sustained winds of 80 mph and was moving northwest at 16 mph. A hurricane watch for Bermuda has been issued, while Puerto Rico and the US & British Virgin Islands have seen tropical storm warnings discontinued.

Significant flooding and infrastructure damage have been reported across Puerto Rico, with 140 flights canceled and many areas left without power and water. Emergency efforts focus on restoring services, but the peril remains high as Ernesto continues to strengthen.

(With inputs from agencies.)