Hurricane Erin strengthens near Caribbean

Forecasters warn Erin rapidly intensified to Category 5 near the Caribbean and could bring heavy rain and coastal hazards.

Erin strengthens to Category 5 near Caribbean

Hurricane Erin intensified from a tropical storm to Category 5 in 24 hours. Maximum winds reached 160 mph. The center said the storm would stay offshore, but its outer rain bands could bring heavy rain to the northeast Caribbean. Forecasters expect Erin to remain a major hurricane for several days even as it grows in size.

Puerto Rico and the Bahamas prepared shelters and deployed emergency teams. Tropical storm watches were issued for St Martin, St Barts and St Maarten. People visited beaches at times despite warnings as some kept to daily routines. The forecast track kept Erin north of land but the storm still threatens shipping, tourism and local infrastructure in the region.

Rapid intensification tied to warm ocean waters is a growing worry for forecasters. Erin shows how quickly a storm can surge from tropical to major status, making forecasts and warnings harder to act on. The Atlantic season is expected to be busy this year.

Officials face a balance between warning people and avoiding panic. Offshore paths complicate planning for shelters, budgets and transport. This event also underscores how climate change may push storms to intensify faster and widen their reach.

Highlights

Forecasts will evolve as Erin moves