Tropical Storm Erin Strengthening in the Atlantic

Tuesday, August 12, 2025 – 8:00 AM EDT

Tropical Storm Erin continues moving westward across the eastern tropical Atlantic early Tuesday, with the latest National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecast projecting gradual strengthening over the coming days. As of the 5:00 AM AST advisory, Erin was located near 17.4°N, 34.3°W, moving west at 22 mph with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph.

Satellite imagery and recent microwave data indicate that Erin remains somewhat disorganized, though banding features are present, especially on the southern side of the storm. While convection weakened overnight, environmental conditions are expected to become more favorable for intensification. The system will be moving over warmer waters with low vertical wind shear, which supports the forecast of Erin strengthening into a hurricane later this week and possibly a major hurricane by the weekend.

Projected Path and Timing
The NHC forecast track takes Erin westward over the next few days with a gradual decrease in forward speed. By the weekend, the storm is expected to turn more toward the west-northwest as the ridge to its north weakens slightly. The official forecast shows Erin reaching hurricane strength by Thursday and becoming a major hurricane near the end of the five-day forecast period.

At this time, the cone of uncertainty remains well east of the Caribbean and the United States. It is important to note that the cone only shows the probable path of the storm center and does not represent the size of the storm or possible impacts outside the cone.

Too Early for U.S. Impact Forecast
There is currently no guarantee that Erin will impact the U.S. East Coast, the Caribbean, or Bermuda. Forecast confidence beyond five days remains limited, and the track could shift as the system develops and interacts with the broader atmospheric pattern.

With the climatological peak of the Atlantic hurricane season approaching, residents in coastal and inland areas should review preparedness plans and remain informed through official forecasts from the NHC and local emergency management.

Current Watches and Warnings
There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect for Tropical Storm Erin at this time.

The next full advisory from the National Hurricane Center will be issued at 11:00 AM AST. Rowan County Weather will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.