Hurricane Ernesto: Category 2 storm closes in on Bermuda, NHC says

Hurricane Ernesto is expected to produce strong winds, a dangerous storm surge, and life-threatening flooding across Bermuda as it approaches later Friday, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Ernesto will directly hit Bermuda overnight, becoming only the 12th hurricane in recorded history to make landfall on the island. Bermuda will face significant impacts, including storm surges, heavy rain, strong winds, and possible tornadoes. Gusts are expected to reach 100-125 mph, with 8-14 inches of rain and surf reaching 20-40 feet overnight.

Beyond Ernesto, the tropics are expected to stay quiet for the next week or so. However, as we approach the end of August and move into Labor Day weekend, the deep tropics will likely become active again with potential storm development.

2024 Atlantic hurricane season names, pronunciation guide

  • Alberto (al-BAIR-toe)
  • Beryl (BEHR-ril)
  • Chris (kris)
  • Debby (DEH-bee)
  • Ernesto (er-NES-toh)
  • Francine (fran-SEEN)
  • Gordon (GOR-duhn)
  • Helene (heh-LEEN)
  • Isaac (EYE-zik)
  • Joyce (joys)
  • Kirk (kurk)
  • Leslie (LEHZ-lee)
  • Milton (MIL-ton)
  • Nadine (nay-DEEN)
  • Oscar (AHS-kur)
  • Patty (PAT-ee)
  • Rafael (rah-fah-ELL)
  • Sara (SAIR-uh)
  • Tony (TOH-nee)
  • Valerie (VAH-lur-ee)
  • William (WILL-yum)

If all of a season's names are used, an alternate name list includes an additional 21 names. Those names for the Atlantic season include, Adria, Braylen, Caridad, Deshawn, Emery, Foster, Gemma, Heath, Isla, Jacobus, Kenzie, Lucio, Makayla, Nolan, Orlanda, Pax, Ronin, Sophie, Tayshaun, Viviana, and Will.

When does hurricane season end?

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30 in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico. 

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