Tropical storm Ernesto is forecasted to strengthen over the next few days and could turn into a hurricane by Thursday as it moves north of the Greater Antilles in the Atlantic, according to the US national hurricane center (NHC).
The storm was located about 10 miles southeast of Guadeloupe as of Tuesday, with maximum sustained winds of 40mph.
Ernesto is likely to pass over parts of the Leeward Islands on Tuesday morning and then move over the US and British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico by Tuesday evening, the Miami-based NHC advised.
Hurricane warnings and precautions
Vieques and Culebra in Puerto Rico are under hurricane warnings, with Ernesto Rodgriuez urging vigilance. A hurricane watch is also in effect for the US and British Virgin Islands.
Most of Puerto Rico remains under tropical storm warning as Ernesto continues its westward journey across the Atlantic.
The potential hurricane is expected to impact areas north of the Greater Antilles, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica, by Thursday.
Impact on the Virgin Islands and surrounding areas
Tropical Storm Ernesto may bring between 4 to 6 inches of rainfall to parts of the Leeward Islands and Virgin Islands, with southeast Puerto Rico potentially experiencing up to 10 inches of rain.
Water levels are expected to rise by up to 3 feet above ground level along Puerto Rico’s east coast and in the US and British Virgin Islands.
The storm surge may also generate large, destructive waves, particularly near the coast of the British Virgin Islands.
Preparations in Puerto Rico
In anticipation of Ernesto’s arrival, Puerto Rico has mobilised the national guard and postponed the start of public school classes, as reported by The Associated Press.
Tropical storm warnings have been issued for St Kitts and Nevis, St Martin and St Maarten, Puerto Rico, St Barts, Saba, and Sint Eustatius.