BEAUMONT, Texas — Tropical Storm Erin is moving quickly westward across the Atlantic Ocean and could strengthen into a hurricane by late Thursday, prompting the National Hurricane Center to advise residents of the northern Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico to monitor the storm's progress.

Hurricane Erin on Saturday morning exploded into a major Category 5 storm with 160 mph sustained winds before weakening back to a strong Category 4 in the evening, according to the National

Hurricane Erin has weakened slightly. Meanwhile, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring two other potential developments in the Atlantic.

Hurricane Erin weakened to a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph while its outer bands pounded the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico with gusty winds and heavy rains early Sunday.

We gathered predictions on how "Hurricane Erin" could impact Florida as Category 3 storm. National Hurricane Center, Jim Cantore, Accuweather weigh in

Erin reached Category 5 status before weakening but has brought significant rain to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.