Tropical Storm Erin Becomes First Hurricane of the Atlantic Season, Threatens Puerto Rico

Erin becomes a hurricane

Threat to Puerto Rico

Dangerous swells in the Caribbean

Tropical Storm Erin strengthened into a hurricane this Friday, becoming the first of the 2025 Atlantic season, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).

The cyclone is moving across the Atlantic with maximum sustained winds of 120 kilometers per hour, heading west-northwest at 30 kilometers per hour.

Its center is located about 740 kilometers east of the Northern Leeward Islands, one of the areas expected to feel the first impacts of the storm.

Authorities warn that Erin will bring heavy rainfall, dangerous swells, and rip currents starting this weekend.

Hurricane Erin brings rainfall and flood risk

Tropical Storm Erin Becomes First Hurricane of the Atlantic Season-Photo: Shutterstock

The NHC reported that Erin’s outer bands will bring between 50 and 100 millimeters of rain to the Northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

In isolated areas, rainfall could reach 150 millimeters, increasing the risk of flash flooding and landslides.

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The agency also warned that dangerous waves could affect the entire region, creating hazardous maritime conditions for swimmers and small vessels.

According to EFE, people in coastal areas are advised to stay informed and follow civil protection instructions.

Watches and Hurricane Erin’s projected path

The NHC has issued a tropical storm watch for Anguilla and Barbuda, Saint Martin and Saint Barthélemy, Saba and Sint Eustatius, as well as Sint Maarten.

This means tropical storm conditions are possible in these islands within the next 48 hours.

The forecast path shows Erin passing near or north of the Northern Leeward Islands between Saturday and Sunday.

Meteorologists emphasize that any shift in its movement could expand the areas of direct impact.

Rapid strengthening in the Atlantic

NOAA and U.S. Air Force hurricane hunter aircraft confirmed that Erin already has hurricane-force winds and could intensify rapidly in the coming days.

According to Telemundo, the NHC does not rule out Erin reaching major hurricane status over the weekend.

Hurricane-force winds extend up to 35 kilometers from the center, while tropical-storm-force winds reach 185 kilometers, mainly to the north.

Authorities stress that the wide wind field increases risks for nearby islands, even if the eye does not make direct landfall.

Atlantic hurricane season context

Erin joins the list of systems formed this year in the Atlantic after Andrea, Barry, Chantal, and Dexter.

Of these, Chantal was the first to make landfall in the United States, killing at least two people in North Carolina in July.

NOAA warned Friday that more storm activity is expected in the second half of the season, which runs until November.

Between August and November, the agency forecasts between two and five major hurricanes in the Atlantic basin.

Above-normal season

NOAA’s updated forecast maintains the estimate of an “above-normal” hurricane season.

In total, between 13 and 18 named tropical storms are expected, of which five to nine could become hurricanes.

Experts recommend that residents in vulnerable areas prepare emergency plans and review their flood insurance coverage.

With Erin underway and the prospect of more cyclones ahead, authorities urge people not to underestimate the threat and to act in advance, according to EFE and Telemundo.