Hurricane Ernesto devastates Bermuda, leaving 75% of the territory without power and on alert.

Hurricane Ernesto has severely impacted Bermuda, leaving a trail of destruction that has affected 75% of the territory, leaving it without electricity. With sustained winds of 85 miles per hour (137 km/h), the weather phenomenon strengthened to a Category 2 storm as it moved over this small island nation in the Atlantic. The storm has wreaked havoc on the electrical infrastructure and tested the resilience of the population. Bermuda's Minister of National Security, Michael Weeks, provided an initial report on the situation, highlighting that authorities have received multiple reports of damage to homes and to the facilities of BELCO, the state-owned electricity company. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, and more detailed information is expected to be provided as emergency teams can access the most affected areas. As the hurricane made landfall around 5:30 AM local time, even more intense winds were recorded. An anemometer at the Bermuda National Museum reported gusts reaching up to 109 miles per hour (175 km/h), indicating the destructive force of the hurricane. These extreme conditions have led authorities to close LF Wade International Airport and several roads indefinitely. Meteorologists have warned that, although Ernesto is already moving away from Bermuda, the danger has not passed. Prolonged periods of strong winds and heavy rainfall are anticipated over the next 36 hours. Michelle Pitcher, director of the Bermuda Weather Service, indicated that rainfall is expected to accumulate to more than 8 inches (20 centimeters), which could exacerbate the situation by causing flooding. As the hurricane dissipates, authorities have emphasized the need to remain alert for dangerous swells along the coasts, especially in the southern part of the island. Ocean currents are intensifying, posing an additional risk to residents and rescue services attempting to work under difficult conditions. The effects of Hurricane Ernesto are felt not only in infrastructure but also in the daily lives of Bermudians. The lack of electricity has disrupted access to essential services, and many citizens find themselves without communication. Authorities have urged the population to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel while adverse weather conditions unfold. The Bermuda government now faces the monumental task of assessing and repairing the damage caused by the hurricane. Emergency teams are on high alert, ready to act as soon as conditions allow. Coordination between emergency services and local authorities is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of the population. The international community has also been attentive to the situation in Bermuda, and assistance is expected as recovery needs are assessed. Hurricanes like Ernesto highlight the vulnerability of island regions and the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters. The coming hours and days will be decisive for Bermuda as the island strives to recover from this devastating hurricane. With hope that the damage is not as severe as initially feared, the population must come together in this critical moment, supporting one another as they face the consequences of the storm. Reconstruction will begin as soon as conditions allow, but the path to normalcy will be long and filled with challenges.