The National Hurricane Center says the storm system Ernesto is now a hurricane.
The system has been hitting eastern Puerto Rico with torrential rainfall. The NHC says significant flooding is expected across Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
It isn't expected to hit the U.S. mainland as it heads up the Atlantic Ocean, which is welcome news for some states that are still dealing with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby.
"Even though Ernesto is forecast to remain well offshore the U.S. East Coast, swells generated by the storm are expected to reach the area late this week and into the weekend," the NHC noted. "Beach goers should be aware of a significant risk of life-threatening surf and rip currents, and stay out of the water if advised by lifeguards."
As of the 10 a.m. Wednesday update, Ernesto had maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour.
Forecasters say Ernesto's winds could peak at 115 miles per hour in the next 48 hours, which would be make the system a major category 3 hurricane.
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