The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Erin, which is expected to strengthen into the first hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season later this week. Forecasters predict Erin will intensify as it moves westward across the Atlantic.
As of Wednesday evening, Tropical Storm Erin was located approximately 1,200 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands. The storm currently has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and is moving west at 17 mph. The NHC anticipates a west-northwestward motion beginning Thursday night and continuing into the weekend.
Potential Impact and Forecast Track
The NHC indicates that the exact impact on the U.S. East Coast, the Greater Antilles, and the Bahamas remains uncertain. However, they have highlighted an increasing risk of dangerous surf and rip currents across the western Atlantic basin next week. Residents and visitors in these areas are advised to monitor updates from the NHC and local authorities.
Strengthening Forecast
The NHC's intensity forecast projects that Tropical Storm Erin will likely become a hurricane within the next day or two. Gradual strengthening is expected, with Erin anticipated to reach hurricane status by Friday. A tropical storm officially becomes a hurricane when maximum sustained winds reach at least 74 mph.
- Current Location: 1,200 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands
- Maximum Sustained Winds: 50 mph
- Movement: West at 17 mph
- Expected Intensification: Hurricane by Friday
Hurricanes are classified on a scale from Category 1 to Category 5, with Category 5 being the most severe. A storm is considered a major hurricane when it reaches Category 3 strength, with sustained winds of at least 111 mph. Some models even predict Erin reaching Category 4 intensity.
No Coastal Watches or Warnings in Effect Yet
Currently, there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. However, swells generated by Erin are expected to begin affecting portions of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico soon. The NHC advises residents in these areas to stay informed about the latest developments and heed any warnings issued by local officials.