As tropical storm Erin edges closer to becoming a hurricane, the United States' National Hurricane Center (NHC) has reported that neither Cuba nor neighboring Florida will be in its path. The storm is expected to gain significant strength over the weekend, particularly between Saturday and Sunday. However, current forecasts suggest that Erin will veer northward, sparing both Cuba and the Florida Peninsula from its impact.
Despite this, the NHC has issued a warning that Erin could unleash heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides in the southern and eastern regions of Puerto Rico, as well as in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, starting this weekend. Areas nearest to the storm's center may experience tropical storm conditions as Erin moves north of these islands, according to the NHC report.
Erin, which formed last Monday to the west of Cape Verde, left a trail of destruction across the African archipelago, resulting in at least seven fatalities, several missing persons, and significant damage. Currently, Erin is located approximately 790 miles east of the Leeward Islands, moving west at a speed of 17 mph, with sustained winds reaching 59 mph. Although the storm's cone of uncertainty has shifted northward, potential impacts on the Bahamas and Bermuda cannot be ruled out for the following week.
Erin is the fifth named storm of this Atlantic hurricane season, following Andrea, Barry, Chantal, and Dexter. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reiterated predictions for an "above-normal" hurricane season this year, anticipating 13 to 18 tropical storms and up to five major hurricanes from August through November.
Key Facts About Hurricane Erin
Will Hurricane Erin impact the United States?
Current forecasts indicate that Hurricane Erin will steer away from the U.S. mainland, avoiding both Cuba and Florida.
What regions might be affected by Hurricane Erin?
Hurricane Erin could bring severe weather to Puerto Rico, and the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, with potential impacts also expected in the Bahamas and Bermuda next week.
How severe is this year's hurricane season expected to be?
The NOAA anticipates an above-normal hurricane season, forecasting 13 to 18 tropical storms and as many as five major hurricanes.
What was the impact of Erin on Cape Verde?
Erin caused significant damage in Cape Verde, resulting in at least seven deaths and leaving several people missing.