NOAA Hurricane Hunters report that Tropical Storm Erin is nearing hurricane strength as it moves west at 17 mph, located about 745 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands.

Maximum sustained winds have risen to 70 mph, and the system is expected to become a hurricane soon, possibly reaching major hurricane status by the weekend.

A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for Anguilla, Barbuda, St. Martin, St. Barthelemy, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Sint Maarten. Tropical storm conditions could arrive in these areas by early Saturday, accompanied by 2–4 inches of rain (isolated 6 inches), raising risks of flash flooding and landslides.

Hazardous surf and life-threatening rip currents are forecast for the northern Leewards, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico this weekend. Residents are urged to monitor updates and prepare for possible storm impacts.