Hurricane Erin strengthened 85 mph in 24 hours to a 160 mph Category 5 hurricane putting in fourth place for rapidly intensifying storms.

Hurricane Erin, now classified as a major hurricane, is under close observation by Hurricane Hunters. The storm’s wind field has grown to about 400 miles with tropical storm-force winds.

As Hurricane Erin tracks northward in the Atlantic, its broad wind field is expected to churn up rough seas and dangerous rip currents along Florida’s east coast this week, forecasters and county officials warned.

There is a risk for dangerous surf and life-threatening rip currents along the entire east coast, including most of Florida.

Hurricane Erin strengthened back into a Category 4 storm as U.S. officials warned of dangerous rip currents this week.

Here's a quick, easy-to-read look on the latest about Hurricane Erin, including what Florida residents should know.

This week’s weather across the Florida peninsula will remain fairly typical for August, even with a major hurricane moving through the Atlantic. A weak high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere continues to dominate the area,