Puerto Rico Prepares for Tropical Storm: National Guard Deployed, School Start Canceled

Puerto Rico has taken significant precautions as a disturbance in the Atlantic is expected to develop into a tropical storm, with the island activating the National Guard and canceling the start of classes in public schools. The National Hurricane Center has issued tropical storm warnings for Puerto Rico, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, along with various Caribbean islands including Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, St. Martin, St. Barts, and St. Maarten.

Predicted Impact on Puerto Rico and Nearby Regions

The National Hurricane Center predicted that the disturbance would approach Puerto Rico and the U.S. and British Virgin Islands by the evening of Tuesday, unleashing heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides. Puerto Rico’s emergency management commissioner, Nino Correa, emphasized the need for vigilance, as the storm is anticipated to bring hurricane-strength wind gusts and significant rainfall, with forecasts indicating between six to eight inches, and potentially higher amounts in isolated areas, according to Ernesto Morales from the National Weather Service in San Juan.

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. of the U.S. Virgin Islands urged residents to take the storm seriously, highlighting the importance of preparedness given that the peak of hurricane season has yet to come. The disturbance is forecasted to become Ernesto, the fifth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, and it is expected to strengthen into a hurricane early Thursday as it moves north toward Bermuda, with some forecasters warning of it potentially becoming a major Category 3 storm.

Currently positioned approximately 435 miles (700 kilometers) east-southeast of Antigua, the disturbance exhibits maximum sustained winds of 35 mph (55 kph) and is moving west at 26 mph (43 kph). The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an above-average Atlantic hurricane season due to record warm ocean temperatures, forecasting 17 to 25 named storms, including four to seven major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher.

Preparations and Precautions in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands

In response to the impending storm, Puerto Rico has taken necessary measures to ensure the safety of its residents. The activation of the National Guard and the cancellation of public school classes reflect the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the impending threat. Emphasizing the need for preparation and alertness, Governor Bryan Jr. of the U.S. Virgin Islands has also urged residents to take the storm seriously, underscoring the importance of being well-prepared given that the peak of hurricane season is still to come.

As Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands brace for the impact of the developing tropical storm, vigilance, preparedness, and adherence to official warnings and advisories will be crucial in ensuring the safety of the residents in the affected areas.