Hurricane Erin Threatens Eastern Seaboard with Large Waves and Coastal Flooding

Hurricane Erin, a powerful Category 2 storm in the Atlantic, is expected to generate large waves and significant coastal flooding as it moves parallel to the eastern coast of the United States. Though the storm’s center remains hundreds of miles offshore, it poses hazardous conditions from Florida to Canada.

The hurricane, having recently undergone an eyewall replacement cycle that slightly reduced its wind speeds but expanded its wind field, has already affected parts of the Caribbean. Outer bands of Erin caused heavy rains and strong winds in Puerto Rico, where more than 147,000 customers experienced power outages. The Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas also faced tropical storm conditions, with dangerous surf and flooding reported through August 19.

Currently steering westward before curving north, Erin’s trajectory has prompted officials along the U.S. East Coast to prepare for potential impacts. North Carolina’s Outer Banks are under evacuation orders as the state governor declared a state of emergency. Beach warnings are in place in New York and New Jersey, urging people to avoid entering the ocean due to dangerous surf and rip currents.

Coastal communities are warned to anticipate beach erosion, flooding, and strong waves throughout the affected region. Forecasters emphasize that, despite the storm remaining offshore, its expanded wind field will generate hazardous marine conditions. This includes the likelihood of coastal flooding in vulnerable low-lying areas along the Eastern Seaboard.

Emergency agencies continue to monitor Hurricane Erin closely as it moves northward, urging residents to stay vigilant and heed local instructions to ensure safety amid this approaching storm threat.