In brief
As Hurricane Erin escalates in severity, the eastern United States braces for hazardous surf and rip currents. The storm is currently impacting the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, where heavy rainfall is expected. Erin, which rapidly intensified to a Category 5 storm before slightly weakening, has left over 150,000 residents in Puerto Rico without power due to its powerful winds. Emergency repairs have restored electricity to 95% of customers, but the storm continues to wreak havoc. The US National Hurricane Center has issued warnings, highlighting the need for readiness in coastal areas, particularly along the Outer Banks, where mandatory evacuations are in effect. Residents are urged to stay informed as the hurricane may shift course unpredictably.
