Hurricane Erin was downgraded to Category 2 as the system continued to make its way northwest.

In its midday update, the Bermuda Weather Service said that within the next three days, the storm’s nearest forecasted point to the island was about 350 miles to the northwest at 3am on Friday.

The BWS added: “Please note that this forecast is subject to change with the next update.”

At noon, the hurricane was about 650 miles southwest of Bermuda, moving at 9mph. It had maximum winds of about 104mph and gusts to 127mph.

The BWS continued to describe Erin as a potential threat to the island.

In its latest advisory, the US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said: “A turn towards the north-northwest with an increase in forward speed is expected today, followed by a northward motion on Wednesday and then a northeastward motion on Thursday.

“On the forecast track, the centre of Erin will pass to the east of the Bahamas today and tonight, and then move over the western Atlantic between the US East Coast and Bermuda on Wednesday and Thursday.”

Jaché Adams, the Acting Minister of National Security, said earlier that while the storm was unlikely to hit the island, it posed a threat that needed to be taken seriously.

He added yesterday: “Too often when storms pass at a distance people believe there is no need to prepare. That attitude is dangerous.

“We must guard against complacency. I urge every resident to treat Erin as a serious test of your preparedness for the season ahead.

“Do not wait until a storm is upon our doorstep to take action.”