Hurricane Erin has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm, becoming the first hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season. The National Hurricane Center reported maximum sustained winds of 160 mph as of Saturday morning.

Current Location

The storm is about 105 miles north of Anguilla and 235 miles east-northeast of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Erin is moving west at 17 mph and expected to pass near or north of the Leeward Islands this weekend.

Watches and Warnings

Tropical storm watches are in effect for St. Martin, St. Barts, Anguilla, and Barbuda. These islands could see rain, gusty winds, and up to six inches of rainfall through Saturday. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are also at risk of flash flooding, mudslides, and winds of 40–50 mph from the storm’s outer bands.

Forecast Path

Erin is projected to stay east of the Bahamas before turning north by early next week. Forecast models keep the storm hundreds of miles offshore from the U.S. mainland, moving between Bermuda and the East Coast.

Coastal Impacts

Even without a direct hit, Erin is expected to generate dangerous rip currents and coastal erosion from Aug. 20–27. North Carolina’s Outer Banks could see waves of 8–12 feet, while parts of South Carolina and Virginia may see waves up to 6 feet.

Seasonal Outlook

NOAA predicts an above-normal hurricane season, with peak activity in August, September, and October. The Atlantic hurricane season officially ends on Nov. 30.

For more on hurricane preparedness, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.