Caribbean Braces as Hurricane Erin Strengthens Rapidly

Hurricane Erin escalated to a dangerous Category 3 storm in the Caribbean early Saturday, with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecasting further intensification to Category 4 later today. Located 275 kilometers northeast of Anguilla, Erin is packing maximum sustained winds of 195 kph and moving west-northwest at 31 kph, prompting warnings of flash flooding and landslides across nearby islands.

While Erin is not currently expected to make landfall, tropical storm watches are in effect for St. Martin, St. Barthelemy, and Sint Maarten, with up to 10-15 centimeters of rain anticipated. The NHC warned, “Locally, considerable flash and urban flooding, along with landslides or mudslides, are possible.” Hurricane expert Michael Lowry noted that Erin is likely to veer northeast, potentially sparing the U.S. mainland but posing a “closer call” for Bermuda, which could face the storm’s stronger eastern side.

Erin, the first hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season, is fueled by unusually warm ocean waters, several degrees above historical averages, according to AccuWeather’s Alex DaSilva. The season, running from June 1 to November 30, is projected to be highly active, with 6-10 hurricanes expected, including 3-5 major storms with winds exceeding 177 kph.

Also Read: Hurricane Erin Menaces Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands

In response, Puerto Rico has mobilized over 200 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) personnel, with 367 shelters inspected and ready. The U.S. Coast Guard closed six Puerto Rican and two U.S. Virgin Islands seaports to incoming vessels. In the Bahamas, officials have prepared public shelters, with Aarone Sargent of the disaster risk management authority urging vigilance due to the storm’s unpredictable nature. As Erin strengthens, Caribbean communities brace for potential impacts, closely monitoring its path.

Also Read: Hurricane Erin Menaces Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands