Hurricane Erin rapidly strengthens into Category 4, flash flood warnings issued across Caribbean

Hurricane Erin has surged into a Category 4 system north-east of Anguilla with sustained winds of 130 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. While the storm is not forecast to make landfall, it is lashing nearby islands with heavy rain, rough seas and gusty winds. Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and the Bahamas have taken emergency measures, including port closures and shelter preparations. Erin is expected to grow larger as it tracks north, powered by unusually warm Atlantic waters.