Storm Erin forms in the Atlantic Ocean, monitored by satellites (video)
Headline: Tropical Storm Erin Strengthens, Poses Threat to East Coast
Tropical Storm Erin, the first named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, has been exhibiting signs of intensification, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The storm, currently moving westward from the Cabo Verde Islands at about 20 mph (32 km/h), is being tracked by satellites over the Atlantic Ocean.
Satellite imagery from NOAA reveals organized cloud bands and intensifying thunderstorm activity in Tropical Storm Erin, early indicators of potential eye formation and evolution into a hurricane. Infrared sensors on NOAA's GOES-19 satellite have also detected colder cloud tops and deep convection near the center of the storm, signs of a strengthening system feeding on warm ocean waters.
As of early August, forecasters continue to project an above-normal 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, with 13-18 named storms, 5-9 hurricanes, and 2-5 major hurricanes. Tropical Storm Erin's development aligns with this forecast.
According to NOAA, Tropical Storm Erin may reach hurricane strength by late Thursday or early Friday. As it does so, forecasters warn that swells generated by Erin could produce dangerous surf and rip currents along coastal areas.
The storm formed from a tropical wave that drifted off Africa on Aug. 11 and has undergone a series of natural cycles, reaching peak intensity as a Category 5 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 160 mph (260 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 915 mb. However, it weakened due to an eyewall replacement cycle and environmental factors before re-strengthening to Category 4.
NOAA's forecasts initially predicted Erin would move west-northwestward, with a gradual turn toward the northwest and north expected by about five days out due to mid-latitude westerly flow weakening the ridge. The hurricane’s track guidance showed good agreement through about 60-72 hours, indicating a general west-northwest to northwest track. As of August 22, Erin had become post-tropical while remaining a danger to swimmers along many East Coast beaches, with a large tropical-storm-force wind field extending nearly 575 miles across.
The data from satellites will not only be used for Tropical Storm Erin but also for other anticipated storms in the 2025 hurricane season. Satellites will keep delivering detailed, real-time views of Erin as it develops, supplying essential data to improve tracking and intensity forecasts. Forecast models track Erin moving west-northwest before curving away from the United States, suggesting a very low chance of landfall.
However, the storm could still bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the U.S. East Coast. Beachgoers are urged to exercise caution and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.
[1] NOAA Hurricane Erin [2] CNN Hurricane Erin [3] The Weather Channel Hurricane Erin [4] AccuWeather Hurricane Erin [5] USA Today Hurricane Erin
- The weather forecasters at NOAA, CNN, The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and USA Today are closely monitoring Tropical Storm Erin as it strengthens, with predictions that it may reach hurricane strength.
- In the realm of environmental-science and space-and-astronomy, the data collected from satellites on Tropical Storm Erin will not only be used for the current storm but also for other anticipated tropical weather events during the 2025 hurricane season.
- As Tropical Storm Erin continues to move westward, travelers are advised to stay updated on the news surrounding the storm as it could potentially affect travel plans, especially along the East Coast.
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