Tropical storm Ernesto set to hit Puerto Rico: Warnings in effect, potential for heavy rain and strong winds

It is expected that the rain will begin by late Monday. Rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches will be widespread, with up to 10 inches in parts of the island.

The National Hurricane Center issued tropical storm warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands on Monday morning.

The potential cyclone five is expected to become tropical storm Ernesto by Tuesday morning.

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The system is expected to bring rainfall, gusty winds, and dangerous seas to Puerto Rico. 

Tropical storm watches were issued on Sunday, but were updated to warnings after Monday’s 11:00 a.m. bulletin.

The warning means tropical storm conditions are coming soon with sustained winds up to 73 miles per hour with stronger gusts, and are capable of damaging structures, and taking down trees and power lines.

It is expected that the rain will begin by late Monday. Rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches will be widespread, with up to 10 inches in parts of the island.

Storm surge is also expected to raise sea levels by one to three feet along the east coast of Puerto Rico, from San Juan to Guayama, including Vieques and Culebra.

The island’s government also announced the cancellation of the start of classes tomorrow. The start of the school year in the island’s public schools was scheduled for Tuesday.

The island’s governor, Pedro Pierluisi, signed an executive order to activate the Puerto Rico National Guard to help during the emergency.

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In addition, prices will be frozen for necessities such as water, ice, batteries, and pet food, among other products.

LUMA Energy President Juan Saca said Monday that there will be interruptions in the energy system as a result of the anticipated instability in weather conditions caused by the passage of a tropical system. Saca said that the restoration of service will depend on “the intensity of the event,” but the interruptions could be prolonged.