Potential Tropical Cyclone 5 is now Tropical Storm Ernesto, less than 500 miles east of the Lesser Antilles, and some islands have been issued tropical storm alerts. Let’s discuss the track and intensity.

Our WeatherRadar shows Ernesto has been traveling to the west rapidly at 28 mph, and because of this fast-forward speed, tropical storm alerts have been issued. The northeastern portion of the Caribbean can expect tropical storm conditions within the next 36 hours, this includes Puerto Rico which will experience tropical storm force winds Tuesday evening along with heavy rains. The Hispaniola could receive between 2 and 4 inches of rain.

The system will decrease its speed once it reaches the northeastern Caribbean, which will aid the development of flooding across the northern portion of the Lesser Antilles and Puerto Rico. Some areas could receive up to 10 inches of rain. The seas and swells will be rough and large, so make sure to avoid the water if you are in these islands and regions.

Ernesto is likely to become a hurricane late Wednesday or early Thursday morning. Hurricane Hunters are investigating this system on Monday morning and there will be better data input in the computer models. The long-term track points that this system has a good chance of turning north as there will be a break in the Subtropical Ridge, or the Bermuda High, which will allow this system to turn north well before reaching the U.S.

**This information is also available in Spanish in tiempoyradar.com**