Erin reaches Category 4 in Caribbean

Erin strengthens to a powerful Category 4 and the region braces for heavy rain and flooding as forecasters monitor its track.

Erin rises to Category 4 hurricane in the Caribbean

Hurricane Erin has intensified into a Category 4 storm in the Caribbean, with maximum sustained winds near 145 mph and a west-northwest track at about 20 mph. It sits roughly 150 miles northeast of Anguilla and forecasters say landfall is not expected, though the storm’s outer bands are bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous surf to nearby islands. Tropical storm watches remain in place for St. Martin, St. Barts and St. Maarten as Erin grows in size over open water.

Officials say Erin will likely turn northeast away from the United States, but Bermuda could face a closer call if the track shifts. The Atlantic season is expected to stay busy, with forecasts for six to ten named storms and three to five major hurricanes. In Puerto Rico, FEMA and other agencies have deployed personnel as a precaution, shelters are being prepared, and ports are closed to most vessels. Bahamas officials also prepared public shelters and urged residents to monitor alerts.

Erin’s rapid intensification highlights how quickly warm Atlantic waters can empower storms. The uncertainty around its exact path shows why forecasters stress the need to monitor multiple models and track shifts that can change risk for Bermuda and the U.S. east coast. The response, from shelter readiness to port closures, reflects how authorities mobilize resources while trying to calm public nerves.

Beyond the weather, the episode reveals gaps and tensions in disaster planning. Seasonal forecasts that predict a busy year put pressure on governments to balance preparedness with budget constraints and public communication. The region’s coordination—between federal agencies, local authorities, and island communities—will test resilience as Erin moves and the season unfolds.

Highlights

Preparedness stays essential as the season unfolds