Hurricane Erin Intensifies in Caribbean, Could Turn Away from U.S.

On Saturday morning, Erin reached Category 3 hurricane status as it churned in the Caribbean. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) anticipates that Erin will gain further strength throughout the day.

Located about 170 miles northeast of Anguilla, Hurricane Erin boasted winds topping out at approximately 120 mph while advancing in a west-northwest direction at 20 mph.

Though direct landfall is not predicted, nearby islands are dealing with substantial wind impacts. Forecasters have issued advisories about possible flooding and landslides as a precautionary measure.

Expectations are set for Erin to intensify to a Category 4 hurricane by later in the day, eventually steering away from the mainland United States.

Preparation Measures for Erin

Currently, tropical storm watches are active for areas including St. Martin, St. Barthelemy, and Sint Maarten, with rainfall predictions reaching up to 4 inches and isolated areas possibly experiencing 6 inches.

Flash floods, urban flooding, and possible landslides or mudslides are anticipated according to guidance from the NHC.

NHC hurricane expert Michael Lowry forecasts a northeasterly deviation for Erin, moving it between the U.S. and Bermuda, though Bermuda might be exposed to Erin’s stronger east side.

In response, the U.S. government has stationed over 200 FEMA personnel and additional federal staff in Puerto Rico. This deployment comes as the island remains under a flood watch through the weekend.

Puerto Rico's Housing Secretary announced 367 shelters are ready for activation, if necessary, and the U.S. Coast Guard has restricted access to several ports around Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Meanwhile, Bahamas authorities have urged residents to keep abreast of the hurricane pathway and have prepared various public shelters if needed.

Aarone Sargent, Director of the Bahamas disaster risk management, highlighted the unpredictable nature of such storms and their potential sudden movements.

Overview of the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Originating near Cabo Verde, Erin marks the fifth event in the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. The season, spanning from June to November, had its only U.S. landfall earlier this year in North Carolina with another storm reaching Mexico in June.

According to Accuweather, warm Atlantic waters are predicted to empower Erin significantly, turning it into a formidable Category 4 hurricane.

The hurricane forecast for the year anticipates up to 10 hurricanes, with nearly half achieving major hurricane status with winds surpassing 110 mph.