Hurricane Dean swept across the Yucatan peninsula, toppling trees, power lines and houses as it bore down on the heart of Mexico’s oil industry.

Atlantic storm Ophelia regained hurricane strength, on a course expected to swing towards the Atlantic Coast, as forecasters urged residents from northern Florida to the Carolinas keep close watch on its path over the next few days.

Howling winds from Hurricane Frances toppled trees and left a path of destruction across the Bahamas capital Nassau today as it headed for Florida.

A MENACING Hurricane Frances, packing 140mph winds, crept closer to the southeastern United States yesterday, and forecasters said Florida - still cleaning up after Charley - was at risk of another hurricane strike as soon as tomorrow.

A 140 mph hurricane that is growing in strength is expected to plough through the Bahamas tonight before heading for Florida, still cleaning up after Hurricane Charley.