Tropical Storm Erin Could Become First Hurricane of the Season

When summer heat pushes across the Atlantic, the warm waters often fuel storms that can grow into hurricanes.

For many coastal communities, this time of year brings both anxiety and preparation. Meteorologists watch the skies and seas closely, tracking any sign of developing weather systems.

Some of these storms pass harmlessly over the ocean. Others can cause serious damage when they hit land.

Moving West

A new storm has now entered the watch list. Tropical Storm Erin formed on Monday in the central Atlantic, according to 20Minutos.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center says Erin could reach hurricane strength by the end of the week.

It is currently about 690 kilometers, or 430 miles, west-northwest of the Cape Verde Islands. The storm has sustained winds of 75 kilometers per hour, which is around 45 miles per hour.

Erin is moving west at a speed of 33 kilometers per hour, or 21 miles per hour. It is not expected to make landfall in the coming days.

There are no immediate coastal threats. Tropical storm-force winds reach out 55 kilometers, or 35 miles, from the center.

This is the fifth tropical storm in the Atlantic this year. It follows Andrea, Barry, Dexter, and Chantal.

Chantal was the first of the season to make landfall in the United States. It struck North Carolina in July and left at least two people dead.

Predictions and Expectations

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has warned that storm activity is likely to pick up in the second half of the season.

Between August and November, they expect two to five major hurricanes. The forecast still calls for an above-normal hurricane season overall.

Predictions suggest 13 to 18 tropical storms, with five to nine becoming hurricanes.

The Atlantic hurricane season is always watched closely by weather agencies, shipping companies, and residents in vulnerable areas.

Even storms that never hit land can cause problems for ships and offshore platforms. For now, Erin remains a system to monitor rather than fear.

But forecasters know these storms can change quickly. All eyes will be on the Atlantic in the days ahead to see if Erin turns into the first hurricane of the year.