State of Emergency, Evacuations in North Carolina Ahead of Hurricane Erin

Hurricane Erin has intensified into a major Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of about 140 mph. While it is not expected to make direct U.S. landfall, the storm poses a serious threat—especially to the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Officials in Dare and Hyde counties have declared states of emergency, and mandatory evacuations have begun for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, where the combination of surf, flooding, and possible road washouts could put lives at risk.

Incoming Storm Surge, Surf, and Rip Current Threat

Erin’s sheer size is also notable: hurricane-force winds extend roughly 25 miles from its center, while tropical-storm-force winds reach out over 200 miles. This expansive wind field is already creating dangerous conditions along the East Coast, especially between Florida and New England.

Officials warn of 15-foot waves, intense rip currents, and coastal flooding—particularly during high tide. Life-threatening surf conditions are expected through the week.