CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Tropical Storm Erin has intensified and is now officially the first hurricane of the season.

With sustained winds at 75 mph — it meets the threshold for a Category 1 hurricane.

Erin is expected to intensify significantly over the weekend, fueled by very warm Atlantic waters and low wind shear.

This will likely turn into a major hurricane (Category 3+) by late Saturday or Sunday, and potentially reach Category 4 intensity early next week, with winds exceeding 130 mph.

The track remains about the same between the U.S. and Bermuda. The expected distance offshore is still uncertain, but it is highly certain to be offshore right now.

Tropical Storm Erin formed on Monday, Aug. 11, the National Hurricane Center confirmed using weather satellite data over the Atlantic Ocean.

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