NOAA Hurricane Hunters say Tropical Storm Erin is on the verge of hurricane strength as it moves west at 17 mph, about 745 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands.

Winds have strengthened to 70 mph, and Erin is expected to become a hurricane imminently, with forecasters warning it could reach major hurricane status by the weekend.

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Anguilla, Barbuda, St. Martin, St. Barthelemy, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Sint Maarten. Tropical storm conditions are possible in these areas from early Saturday, bringing 2–4 inches of rain and isolated totals of up to 6 inches, which could trigger flash flooding and landslides.

Hazardous seas and dangerous rip currents are forecast for the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico over the weekend. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and prepare for potential impacts.