Hurricane Erin Weakens to Category 3, Flash Flood Warnings Issued
UPDATE: Hurricane Erin has weakened to a Category 3 hurricane with maximum winds of 125 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center in a 5 a.m. ET update. This formidable storm is currently located about 140 miles north of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and continues to pose a significant threat as it moves west-northwest at 14 mph.
As of now, Erin’s outer bands are unleashing heavy rain and strong winds across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Flash flood warnings are in effect, with rainfall totals reaching between 2 to 6 inches in some areas, and isolated totals could hit 8 inches as the storm progresses. These conditions have raised concerns about rapid flooding, landslides, and mudslides in vulnerable regions.
The U.S. Virgin Islands have already reported significant rainfall, with estimates of 3 to 6 inches over St. John and St. Thomas. Flood watches are in place and are expected to remain active until Monday morning. The outer bands are forecasted to produce gusty winds ranging from 40 to 50 mph as Erin approaches.
Residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeast Bahamas should prepare for tropical storm warnings, as Erin’s outer bands will affect these areas today. Conditions are anticipated to improve for the U.S. Virgin Islands by later this afternoon and for Puerto Rico by nightfall.
Officials stress the importance of heeding safety warnings, as the storm is expected to re-intensify following a natural eyewall replacement cycle. Historical data indicates that this cycle may temporarily weaken hurricanes, but they often regain strength afterward.
As Erin continues to track west-southwest, weather models suggest it will gradually turn north due to a weakening Bermuda High and an incoming cold front along the East Coast. The latest forecasts indicate that any direct impact on the U.S. mainland will remain minimal, but dangerous surf and rip currents are likely to develop along the eastern coastline from Florida’s Space Coast to New England.
As Erin expands, waves could reach heights of 8 to 12 feet along the Carolina coast by Thursday, raising concerns about dangerous surf conditions and potential beach erosion that could threaten properties near the shore.
Residents are urged to stay updated as the National Hurricane Center plans to issue its next advisory at 8 a.m. ET. Prepare for the unexpected, as the situation remains dynamic and evolving.
For ongoing updates and safety tips, keep an eye on local news and official weather advisories.
