Hurricane Erin has stunned experts by reaching 160mph winds and growing into a rare Category 5 storm. The National Weather Service warned the hurricane could cause “catastrophic damage” to homes, trees, and power lines. Entire areas may be left uninhabitable for weeks or months.

The National Hurricane Center issued an urgent alert for the Bahamas, the US East Coast, and Atlantic Canada. “Erin is expected to produce life-threatening surf and rip currents,” officials said. Dangerous waves and flooding could impact beaches from Florida to New England.

#Erin is expected to produce life-threatening surf and rip currents along the beaches of the Bahamas, much of the east coast of the U.S., and Atlantic Canada next week for latest beach forecast visit https://t.co/JttG4XipJ4 pic.twitter.com/YsBZF74IAD

— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 16, 2025

By Sunday morning, Erin briefly weakened to Category 3 but is expected to return to Category 5. Coastal areas such as North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Long Island, and Cape Cod remain at high risk. Residents are urged to stay alert and follow safety advice.

Forecasters warn this hurricane season will be “above average,” with up to 19 named storms predicted. As one expert cautioned, “Do not underestimate Erin—it is unpredictable and dangerous.” Stay safe, stay prepared, and share this warning with loved ones.