A hurricane warning was in effect for Bermuda on Thursday as Hurricane Ernesto continued to strengthen as it moved through the western Atlantic.

Ernesto is a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 90 mph, according to the U.S. National Weather Service. It is expected to continue strengthening this week and could be near major-hurricane strength by Friday, according the weather service. A major hurricane is Category 3 or higher.

The storm is expected to pass over or near Bermuda on Saturday, and a hurricane warning was issued early Thursday as the storm drew nearer. Ernesto is not expected to approach the mainland United States, but forecasters warned it could cause life-threatening surf and rip currents along the East Coast through the weekend.

President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration in Puerto Rico.

— The New York Times