Storm Erin becomes first hurricane of the Atlantic season

Miami, (EFE).- Tropical Storm Erin strengthened into the first hurricane of the Atlantic season this Friday, posing a threat of heavy rain and storm surges to the Northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC). Located about 740 kilometers east of the Northern Leeward Islands, Erin is moving west-northwest at 30 km/h with maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h.

The NHC forecasts 50–100 mm of rain, with isolated peaks of 150 mm, from Friday night through Sunday in the affected islands, raising the risk of flash floods and mudslides. Dangerous swells and rip currents are also expected. Tropical storm watches remain in effect for Anguilla, Barbuda, Saint Martin, Saint Barthélemy, Saba, Saint Eustatius, and Sint Maarten, where conditions could arrive within 48 hours.

Erin’s winds currently reach hurricane strength within 35 km of its center, while tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 185 km, mainly to the north. The NHC warns the system may intensify rapidly over the next two to three days, potentially becoming a major hurricane as it tracks near or north of the Northern Leeward Islands this weekend. Erin follows the earlier formations of Andrea, Barry, Chantal, and Dexter this season.