Hurricane Erin has rapidly strengthened to a Category 5 hurricane with a maximum sustained wind of 160 mph (260 km/h).
Mike Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, told the briefing that the “extremely” storm “explosively deepened and strengthened” overnight after the strength of tropical storms increased Friday.
Erin is expected to pass through the Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands and northern Puerto Rico over the weekend, with rainfall up to 6 inches (15 cm) and potential flash torrents and mudslides.
The storm is the first hurricane of the Atlantic Season in 2025 and is not yet expected to make landfall in the U.S. continent.
Hurricane Erin experienced rapid strengthening, with the storm strengthening at least 34 mph in 24 hours.
Brennan said the wind in Erin increased from 100 mph early Saturday morning to 160 mph.
Next week, Hurricane Irene will gradually move northward, crossing the eastern part of the Bahamas and moving upward toward the outer shore of North Carolina.
Brennan said nearly “the entire East Coast” would generate life-threatening surfing and tearing currents next week.
Florida and the mid-Atlantic countries will see the most dangerous surfing conditions, he said.
Brennan added that Bermuda can also see “life-threatening” surfing conditions and heavy rain.
Due to strong winds, the U.S. Coast Guard imposed restrictions on the ports of St. Thomas and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands and six municipalities in Puerto Rico, including San Juan.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the main weather agency of the U.S. government, predicts that this year’s Atlantic hurricane season will be “higher than normal.”
The number of tropical storms reaching fourth and fifth is expected to increase due to global warming.
Health & Wellness Contributor
A wellness enthusiast and certified nutrition advisor, Meera covers everything from healthy living tips to medical breakthroughs. Her articles aim to inform and inspire readers to live better every day.
