Experts say powerful Hurricane Irene could be a "big threat" to the New England area, on America's east coast.

The storm's been upgraded to a Category Three - with winds of 115 miles per
hour.

It's currently closing in on the Bahamas.

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Meanwhile, the earthquake that shook the area last night
has damaged one of the country's most recognisable landmarks.

Officials say yesterday's tremor cracked one of the stones at the top of the Washington Monument, which remains closed until further notice.