The National Hurricane Center is tracking three systems in the Atlantic basin, including a new homegrown system that appeared late Aug. 12.

Could Tropical Storm Erin strengthen into a massive hurricane for the East Coast? Get updates on the development in the Atlantic Ocean here.

Tropical storm Erin is forecast to become the first major Atlantic hurricane of the year, and it could bring dangerous weather to the East. Here’s what to know. The first Atlantic hurricane of the year could be upon us.

The National Hurricane Center said Tropical Storm Erin is expected to begin strengthening today, Aug. 13 and become a hurricane Friday, Aug. 15, and a strong Category 3 hurricane by Sunday, Aug. 17 as it moves out of an area with dry area and "marginal" sea surface temperatures.

In a statement, Cory Schwisow, interim director of Monroe County Emergency Management, said the county was recently qualified to receive “60% of post-disaster reimbursement funds upfront,” which he said “significantly reduces the financial strain on our county and enhances our ability to respond swiftly to emerging needs.”

The chances that rain and wind from Tropical Storm Erin will hit the East Coast have risen slightly this week.

For now, most reliable computer models that meteorologists use show Erin curving away from the United States, spinning off the East Coast later in August.

Tropical Storm Erin is on track to strengthen into a major hurricane in the coming days. Jordon Hudson, the current girlfriend of former NFL coach Bill Belichick, and his ex-girlfriend, Linda Holliday, attended the same fundraiser

The chances that the storm will make landfall in the U.S. have increased slightly after the path shifted south.