Additional Coverage:
Hurricane Erin Briefly a Category 5, Poses East Coast Threat
Hurricane Erin intensified into a Category 5 hurricane on August 16th, boasting sustained winds of 160 mph as it churned westward just north of the Virgin Islands. While a direct U.S. impact is not anticipated, the storm is expected to generate hazardous surf conditions along the East Coast, according to National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan. He cautioned beachgoers that seemingly pleasant weather can mask dangerous ocean conditions.
After its rapid intensification, Erin’s wind speeds decreased to 140 mph by late evening, reclassifying it as a still-powerful Category 4 hurricane. This fluctuation in intensity is expected to continue as the hurricane shifts direction towards the west-northwest and then north, eventually curving away from the U.S. East Coast.
As of the evening of August 16th, Hurricane Erin was situated approximately 145 miles north-northeast of San Juan, Puerto Rico, moving west-northwest at 14 mph. The storm’s projected path takes it north of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico through Sunday, August 17th, with potential rainfall totals reaching up to 8 inches. The Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeastern Bahamas remain under a tropical storm watch, with tropical storm conditions possible as Erin passes through.
Erin’s rapid intensification marks a rare event, becoming only the fifth Category 5 hurricane on record to form this early in the season, and the sole Category 5 observed outside the Gulf or Caribbean at this time of year. The hurricane’s strength, reaching the highest category on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, was reflected in its low central pressure, which was unusually low for this point in the hurricane season.
While the storm is expected to weaken as it turns north and moves over cooler waters, its impact on the U.S. East Coast will primarily manifest in dangerous surf conditions, including high waves and rip currents, from Florida to New England.
Beach erosion and coastal flooding are possible in the Outer Banks. Officials urge caution for anyone venturing near the ocean, even in seemingly calm weather.
North Carolina Emergency Management has issued preparedness guidelines for coastal residents, including knowing evacuation zones, securing homes, and preparing emergency kits. Coastal areas prone to overwash are advised to take precautions.
A separate tropical disturbance off the East Coast has a low probability of developing into a cyclone.