Tropical Storm Ernesto is moving onshore over southeastern Cuba, according to the National Hurricane Center, Miami, Fla., as of 8 a.m. EDT Aug. 28.
A hurricane watch remains in effect for the southern peninsula of Florida from Deerfield Beach southward on the east coast, and from south of Chokoloskee southward along the west coast. A hurricane watch remains in effect for all of the Florida Keys from Ocean Reef to the Dry Tortugas. A hurricane watch is also in effect for Andros Island in the northwestern Bahamas.
A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area, generally within 36 hours. Additional hurricane watches may be required for portions of the Florida peninsula later in the day.
A tropical storm warning is in effect for ragged island and great Exuma in the central Bahamas. A tropical storm warning means that Tropical storm conditions are expected within the warning area within the next 24 hours. Interests elsewhere in the central and northwestern Bahamas should monitor the progress of Ernesto. For storm information specific to your area, including possible inland watches and warnings, tune in to your local weather office.
The NHC reports movement toward the northwest near 12 miles per hour. Maximum sustained winds are hitting 45 miles per hour.