Massive Hurricane Erin Nears US Coast: Evacuation Orders Issued for Outer Banks
Massive Hurricane Erin Nears US Coast: Evacuation Orders Issued for Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin, a massive and dangerous storm, is rapidly approaching the Eastern Seaboard, prompting mandatory evacuation orders and states of emergency in two North Carolina counties. As of Tuesday evening, the storm was 615 miles south-southeast of Cape Hatteras, N.C., moving north-northwest at 10 mph with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph. Despite a recent drop in wind speed from Monday’s 140 mph, forecasters expect Erin to regain strength and expand even further, making its colossal size the primary threat.
While Erin is not expected to make direct landfall in the U.S., it is projected to unleash large waves of 15 to 20 feet or higher onto the shoreline, coupled with significant storm surge. A tropical storm warning is now in effect for the Outer Banks from Beaufort Inlet to Duck, with tropical storm conditions anticipated late Wednesday. Additionally, a storm surge warning has been issued along the Outer Banks from Cape Lookout to Duck, indicating a danger of life-threatening inundation of 2 to 4 feet above ground level.
Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for all residents and visitors on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands in the Outer Banks. Authorities are urging immediate departure as seawater has begun to flow onto parts of Highway 12, the main road connecting these communities. Dare County Emergency Management Director Drew Pearson emphasized the urgency, stating, “I encourage all residents and visitors to heed the evacuation order and take action to protect themselves, to protect their property, and to get up and leave — now.” The National Weather Service warns that roads and vehicles in low-lying areas could be inundated for days once water levels rise.
Beyond North Carolina, a high risk of life-threatening surf and rip currents extends from Florida up to Long Island, New York. Forecasters have nudged Erin’s predicted track slightly westward, increasing the potential for onshore impacts. Experts highlight that Erin’s massive wind field, extending hundreds of miles from its center, poses a greater danger than its current wind speed, as it significantly amplifies storm surge levels and coastal erosion. This unusual size means even official advisories may underestimate the risk of tropical-storm-force winds being felt along the coast.
Erin marks the first hurricane of the Atlantic season. While the season started slowly, experts caution against complacency, noting that climate change is expected to lead to fewer but more intense hurricanes, often Category 3 or greater, with warmer ocean temperatures fueling more powerful storms and increasing flood risks.
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