Tropical Storm Erin Forecast to Become Hurricane, Surf Risks Rising

Tropical Storm Erin is gradually strengthening and is forecast to reach hurricane status by Friday over the central tropical Atlantic, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). While a direct U.S. landfall is not expected at this time, the storm is raising concerns about dangerous surf and rip currents across the western Atlantic next week.

Erin’s maximum sustained winds increased slightly to 45 mph on Wednesday, marking the first boost in intensity since it became a tropical storm Monday morning. Forecasters predict gradual strengthening over the next two days, with Erin potentially becoming a major hurricane, with winds of at least 111 mph, by Sunday afternoon.

Currently located about 1,200 miles east of the Northern Leeward Islands, Erin is moving westward at 17 mph. Its path is expected to shift northwest starting Thursday night and into the weekend. The NHC cautions that forecast accuracy beyond Monday carries a margin of error of 150 to 214 miles.

“There is greater than normal uncertainty about what impacts Erin may bring to portions of the Bahamas, the East Coast of the United States, and Bermuda,” said NHC forecaster Jack Beven. He added that the risk of life-threatening surf and rip currents across the western Atlantic is increasing.

Forecasts indicate swells from Erin could create dangerous surf and rip current conditions by the weekend. AccuWeather experts warn that residents, visitors, cruise lines, and maritime activities could encounter the storm’s path, especially if it tracks closer to Bermuda or the U.S. East Coast.