Hurricane Erin has rapidly intensified into a rare Category 5 storm, with wind speeds reaching 160 mph. The hurricane is projected to double or triple in size in the coming week, bringing potential coastal dangers from Florida to New England. As it churns through the Caribbean, Erin poses immediate threats to the islands and is expected to impact areas along the East Coast, including North Carolina and possibly as far as Maryland. The Coast Guard has set Port Condition YANKEE for two seaports in the U.S. Virgin Islands as preparations continue for the powerful storm.