Photo: CIRA/NOAA
Hurricane Erin has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm, marking it as one of the fastest-strengthening hurricanes in Atlantic history. The storm's wind speeds surged from 75 mph to nearly 160 mph in just over 24 hours. This rapid intensification is notable as it occurred earlier than usual in the hurricane season, which typically peaks in September and October.
The National Hurricane Center reports that Erin is the first major hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season, which has already seen four other named storms. Erin is expected to pass north of Puerto Rico and the Leeward Islands, avoiding direct landfall, but still poses threats of heavy rain, flash flooding, and dangerous rip currents. The Star Tribune notes that Erin's rapid growth is fueled by unusually warm ocean temperatures, a condition linked to climate change.
Erin's powerful winds and heavy rains are expected to impact the Caribbean islands, with tropical storm watches issued for St. Martin, St. Barts, and St. Maarten. The storm is projected to double or triple in size as it moves north-northeast into the open Atlantic, potentially affecting the U.S. East Coast and Atlantic Canada with rough surf and rip currents next week.
As the storm progresses, it is anticipated to fluctuate in intensity due to increased wind shear and dry air. However, it is expected to remain a major hurricane until midweek. The 2025 hurricane season is predicted to be active, with forecasts calling for six to ten hurricanes, three to five of which could reach major status.