Hurricane Ernesto has been downgraded to a Category 1 storm, but forecasters warn it still poses a significant threat to the British island territory of Bermuda as it continues to move northward.

As of 11 PM Atlantic Standard Time on Friday, the eye of the storm was located about 65 miles south-southwest of Bermuda. Ernesto was moving north-northeast at 13 mph, with maximum sustained winds of up to 90 mph.

While Ernesto has weakened from its previous Category 2 status, it is still packing very dangerous winds that could cause significant damage. The hurricane is expected to bring a dangerous storm surge, heavy rainfall of up to 9 inches, and the potential for flash flooding to Bermuda.

“Folks, be under no illusion. This storm is the real deal,” said Michael Weeks, Bermuda’s national security minister, at a press conference on Friday. Emergency responders have been deployed to strategic locations across the island.

Already, Ernesto’s winds have knocked out power for over 5,400 of Bermuda’s 36,000 customers. The local utility company has pulled its repair crews off the field due to safety concerns.

The storm’s effects are being felt across the region, with dangerous surf conditions and rip currents reported along the U.S. East Coast. New York City has closed its beaches over the weekend due to the hazardous conditions.

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While Ernesto may continue to weaken in the short term, forecasters warn it could strengthen again as it moves over the warm waters of the Gulf Stream.

Residents of Bermuda have been urged to brace for a prolonged pummeling from the dangerous storm throughout Saturday.