Though Hurricane Erin is not forecast to make landfall on the U.S., the storm’s rapid intensification has prompted increased measures in North Carolina.

Hurricane Erin churns in the Atlantic where high winds and heavy rain are pelting the Turks and Caicos Islands and parts of the Bahamas.

Though Hurricane Erin will not make landfall in the U.S., here's why a tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of North Carolina.