Bermuda Skirted by Storm
Hurricane Erin strengthened Sunday, stranding tourists on Bermuda but sparing the wealthy island its lashing winds as it veered to the northeast.
Hard rain pelted the island, but the storm’s center stayed 110 miles northeast of the British territory. There were no reports of flooding, wind damage or injuries.
Erin’s sustained winds reached 120 mph, up from 105 mph earlier Sunday, making it a Category 3 hurricane, which can cause extensive damage.
The storm was not expected to grow stronger but could affect Canada within three days, said Richard Pasch, a specialist with the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami.
“It could pose a threat to places like Newfoundland in a few days, but that’s not certain,” he said.
Bermuda discontinued its hurricane warning but posted a tropical storm warning. The local weather service reported gusts of up to 54 mph and sustained winds as high as 45 mph.
Earlier projections showed Erin--the first named hurricane of the 2001 Atlantic season--coming within 15 miles of Bermuda, but its track shifted.
Flights in and out of Bermuda were canceled Sunday afternoon, stranding hundreds of travelers.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
