Fierce Waves: Hurricane Igor Heads North After Battering Bermuda

Sept. 20, 2010— -- A weakened Hurricane Igor battered the British territory of Bermuda Sunday night as it continued to move north this morning.

The category 1 storm howled through Bermuda's empty streets and left most of the island without electricity.

Gusts ranged up to 93 miles per hour, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Heavy winds will pound the North Atlantic Island for at least half a day. Fierce waves hit the island but no major damage has been reported.

Forecasters predict the storm will head northeast but could still create high surf and rip currents along the U.S. Eastern seaboard.

A tropical storm watch was issued for the Newfoundland coast in Canada.

Residents Brace for the Worst

Some residents ventured out early Sunday to see Igor stirring up the surf.

"It's absolutely spectacular, but it's going to be probably absolutely horrifying," said Peter Mills, a Bermuda resident.

With more than six inches of rain and 15-foot waves, the storm caused flooding in low-lying areas.

The center of the storm brushed right along the west side of the island, almost a direct hit.

Bermuda officials said at least 20 people have been treated for minor injuries but no fatalities.

As the winds whipped throughout the night, residents could only hope that the historic hurricane they feared would leave their island with moderate damage.

"Hopefully, this will pass," said Steve Gibbons, a Bermuda resident.

Emergency officials are asking to residents to stay in their homes as they assess the storm's damages.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.