Hurricane Erin strengthens into a Category 2 storm as it approaches the northeast Caribbean

Hurricane Erin strengthens into a Category 2 storm as it approaches the northeast Caribbean 36 mins ago Hurricane Erin has strengthened into a Category 2 storm as it approaches Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, bringing heavy rains that could cause flooding and landslides. The National Hurricane Center in Miami reports Friday the storm is about 250 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands, with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph. Tropical storm watches are in effect for parts of the Leeward Islands. Experts say Erin is expected to turn east of the U.S. next week. Erin is the first hurricane of the Atlantic storm season.