Raleigh, North Carolina – Hurricane Erin is churning just 335 miles south-southeast of Cape Hatteras, pushing life-threatening storm surge and coastal flooding toward North Carolina’s shoreline as it tracks northward through Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, the storm is expected to bring 2 to 4 feet of surge along low-lying areas of the Outer Banks, with tropical storm-force winds potentially arriving by late Thursday. Flood-prone roads, including NC-12 and U.S. Route 70, may become impassable at high tide.
Emergency officials are urging residents in Dare, Carteret, and New Hanover counties to stay alert. Beaches from Wilmington to Nags Head could experience significant dune erosion, dangerous rip currents, and inland flooding in areas with poor drainage. Ferry services and bridge access may also be restricted.
Power outages are possible as winds intensify. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, charge phones, and avoid non-essential travel along the coast. Mariners should remain in port as gale warnings remain in effect offshore.
The storm’s impacts are expected to last into early Saturday, especially if Erin’s track remains west of current projections. Additional warnings may be issued as conditions evolve.
