Hurricane Erin has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm, posing serious risks to the eastern US coast. The storm has already begun affecting the southeastern Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands, where warnings are in place. Although Erin is not expected to make landfall there, residents are preparing for heavy rainfall—up to six inches is forecasted.
As of this morning, Erin was packing maximum sustained winds of 130 mph as it moved east of the Bahamas. Public services in Turks and Caicos have paused, with officials urging those in vulnerable areas to prepare for possible evacuation.
Helen Willetts, a lead presenter at BBC Weather, has labeled Erin as “a major storm.” She warns of significant rainfall leading to flash and coastal flooding, storm surge, and dangerous rip currents. Notably, Puerto Rico has already seen heavy downpours, with 82 mm of rain in just 24 hours.
Power outages struck over 150,000 people in Puerto Rico due to high winds damaging electricity lines. Fortunately, local utility company Luma reports that 95% of customers had their power restored by Sunday evening.
As Erin’s outer bands reach the Bahamas, the country’s Disaster Risk Management Authority is urging preparedness among residents. Managing Director Aarone Sargent emphasized the importance of knowing the nearest shelters, as storms can shift unexpectedly.
The storm’s path is projected to continue between Bermuda and the eastern US coast by midweek. Forecasts indicate Erin will remain a large and dangerous hurricane throughout this period. The Outer Banks in North Carolina are already experiencing heavy surf and winds, prompting mandatory evacuations for Hatteras Island due to potential road blockages from flooding.
The National Hurricane Center warns that rip currents may affect the entire US East Coast, making beach activities risky.
Erin is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of staying informed and prepared during hurricane season. In a time when climate change is making storms more unpredictable, it’s crucial to heed warnings and take action to protect lives.
For ongoing updates, check reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center.
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