Tropical Storm Erin has begun strengthening as it streaks west across the Atlantic and is on track to reach hurricane status as soon as Friday, prompting tropical storm watches in the northern Leeward Islands.

Officials in the northern Caribbean are warning of heavy rains and dangerous swells as Tropical Storm Erin approaches the region.

Royal Caribbean International’s Vision of the Seas is changing the itinerary of its upcoming cruise to avoid Tropical Storm Erin. After forming earlier this week, the system is expected to become the first hurricane of the season over the next few days.