Hurricane Erin shuts down beaches from Florida to New York

Hurricane Erin is currently causing havoc in the Atlantic waters, prompting the closure of beaches along the U.S. East Coast from the mid-Atlantic to the Northeast. While the storm is not expected to make landfall, its outer rain bands could lash North Carolina’s Outer Banks, leading to Tropical Storm Warnings and Storm Surge Warnings in the area.

Authorities in Dare and Hyde counties have declared local states of emergency and issued mandatory evacuation orders for tourists and residents in popular areas like Ocracoke Island and Hatteras Island. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources and assist with the response to Hurricane Erin.

Due to the storm surge and large waves of up to 12 feet, officials are warning people to stay out of the water for safety reasons. Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina reported nearly 60 water rescues on Monday and an additional 20 on Tuesday due to strong rip currents. As a precaution, the town has advised all beachgoers to avoid the water until Friday.

As of the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Erin has maximum sustained winds of 100 mph, with some slow strengthening expected through Thursday night. The storm is currently located about 400 miles south-southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, moving north-northwest at 13 mph. The forecast predicts a turn to the north on Wednesday, followed by a northeastward motion on Thursday.

While Hurricane Erin is not expected to directly impact the U.S. East Coast, its effects are still being felt with dangerous rip currents, storm surges, and high waves. Residents and tourists in the affected areas are urged to stay informed, prepare emergency kits, and follow guidance from local authorities. Stay safe and heed all warnings as the storm continues to move along its path in the Atlantic.