Miami, FL – Hurricane Erin, now a stronger and larger storm, is forecast to generate hazardous surf and rip currents along the U.S. East Coast after impacting parts of the Caribbean. The storm intensified to a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph (215 kph) late Sunday, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Erin lashed the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, with tropical storm conditions expected in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeast Bahamas overnight into Monday. Forecasts indicate additional strengthening on Monday before gradual weakening, though the hurricane is projected to remain a major storm into midweek.
Widespread Hurricane Impact
Hurricane-force winds stretched up to 60 miles (95 kilometers) from Erin’s center, while tropical-storm-force winds extended outward 230 miles (370 km). This expansion means the storm could impact coastal areas even without making direct landfall.
Dare County, North Carolina, has declared a state of emergency and ordered evacuations of Hatteras Island on the Outer Banks as reported. Officials warned that several days of heavy surf and high waves could wash out parts of N.C. Highway 12, a critical route along the barrier islands.
As of late Sunday, Erin was located about 130 miles (205 km) east-northeast of Grand Turk Island and approximately 965 miles (1,555 km) south-southeast of Cape Hatteras, moving northwest at 12 mph (19 kph).
Caribbean Effects
Erin’s outer bands brought heavy rains and tropical-storm winds to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, causing power outages for roughly 147,000 customers, according to Luma Energy. Over 20 flights were canceled, though ports have reopened as conditions eased.
The storm has also created rough ocean conditions for parts of Hispaniola, the Turks and Caicos, and the Bahamas, with life-threatening surf and rip currents expected along the Bahamas, Bermuda, U.S. East Coast, and Canada’s Atlantic coast as the hurricane moves north and then northeast.
Expert Warnings
“You’re dealing with a major hurricane. The intensity is fluctuating. It’s a dangerous hurricane in any event,” said Richard Pasch of the NHC, emphasizing the risks posed by Erin’s size and strength.
Climate Change Connection
Meteorologists note that rapid hurricane intensification in the Atlantic is linked to climate change, with warmer oceans and increased atmospheric moisture fueling stronger storms that develop more quickly.
Residents along the East Coast and affected islands are urged to stay alert to official advisories, prepare for dangerous surf conditions, and follow evacuation instructions where applicable.
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