Despite this, the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) says Erin is growing in size, with tropical-storm-strength winds extending 205 miles from its centre. Storm-related hazards, including flash flooding and landslides, are expected in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Hurricane Erin rapidly exploded overnight from a Category 3 storm to a massive Category 5 and is expected to strengthen further as it curves north between the U.S. East Coast and Bermuda this upcoming week, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Hurricane Erin has intensified to a Category 4 storm affecting the Caribbean, impacting flights and cruise itineraries, with warnings issued for the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, and it poses a significant coastal threat to the U.