U.S. shores are unlikely to see a direct hit, but a strong offshore hurricane can produce massive and dangerous waves well away from its center.

Erin’s strength: Erin’s maximum sustained winds are 125 mph, making it a strong Category 3 hurricane. Hurricane-force winds extend 50 miles from the center. Tropical storm force winds (at least 39 mph) extend 205 miles from Erin’s center. “Some increase in size and strength is forecast during the next 48 hours,” the hurricane center said.

MIAMI (AP) — Erin became a Category 3 hurricane in the Caribbean early Saturday and is expected to strengthen further during the day, the National Hurricane Center reported. The storm is currently 170 miles (275 kilometers) northeast of Anguilla with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (195 kph). It is moving west-northwest at 20 mph (31 kph).