Hurricane Maria strengthens to an “extremely dangerous” category four storm as it nears Caribbean islands.
Evacuation orders have been issued in Puerto Rico, as Hurricane Maria is expected to hit the already storm-battered Caribbean islands as a Category 4 storm. Puerto Rico and the US and British Virgin Islands are forecast to take the hardest blows.
The US territory of Puerto Rico is preparing for a Category 4 hurricane to hit the island Wednesday morning. Starting midday Tuesday, conditions will begin to deteriorate and the island could get between 12 and 18 inches of rain, according to Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello.
“Flood prone areas must be abandoned,” Public Security Secretary Héctor Pesquera said. “If not, you will die.” Officials have ordered four areas to be evacuated.
