Charleston, SC, August 20, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Erin, now a Category 2 storm, continues to pose dangers along the U.S. East Coast, prompting evacuations and beach closures. The National Weather Service reports hazardous surf and rip currents, especially in Georgia and South Carolina. Significant rainfall and wave heights of 10 to 20 feet are expected, leading to mandatory evacuations in high-risk areas like Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency as officials mobilize resources to ensure public safety amidst rising threats from the storm.
Charleston, SC – Hurricane Erin Downgraded to Category 2 Amidst Evacuations and Beach Closures Along the U.S. East Coast
Hurricane Erin, initially reaching Category 5 and subsequently downgraded to a Category 2 storm, continues to generate dangerous conditions along the U.S. East Coast. The National Weather Service in Charleston, South Carolina, has reported rough surf and hazardous rip currents affecting area beaches, leading to emergency responses and evacuations in vulnerable regions.
As of Tuesday morning, Hurricane Erin was located approximately 665 miles southwest of Bermuda and 720 miles south-southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Although no landfall is expected, the storm’s expansive wind fields pose risks of strong winds and waves, with forecasts predicting waves of 10 to 20 feet for the upcoming days.
Along Georgia and South Carolina beaches, lifeguards have made numerous rescues due to life-threatening surf and rip currents. Reports indicate around 12 rip currents have occurred, with one notable incident resulting in a rescue at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Authorities are urging beachgoers to stay out of the water as conditions are projected to remain treacherous through the week.
Tropical storm warnings have been issued for the Outer Banks in North Carolina, which are forecasted to experience the most significant impact from Erin on Wednesday morning. Rainfall estimates suggest 1 to 2 inches in the Outer Banks from Wednesday night into Thursday, with localized areas potentially receiving as much as 4 inches. Given these predictions, evacuations have been mandated for both Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island.
In response to the approaching storm, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency to mobilize necessary resources and ensure public safety. Local officials have issued urgent alerts, advising residents to evacuate immediately from high-risk areas to avoid severe flooding and storm surge conditions.
Coastal regions are facing anticipated beach erosion and overwash, which could lead to impassable roads. Life-saving measures are ongoing, with lifeguards and first responders actively addressing dangerous swimming conditions linked to Hurricane Erin.
The storm’s trajectory indicates a turn towards north-northwest, with an increase in speed expected as it moves northward, transitioning to a northeast direction by Thursday. This movement is anticipated to bring heightened conditions to coastal areas, highlighting the need for robust emergency preparedness and response.
Hurricane Erin began as a disturbance in the Atlantic on August 15, rapidly escalating in strength. Previously, it caused power outages in Puerto Rico and nearby territories due to its extreme conditions. Currently, the National Hurricane Center is also monitoring two additional tropical systems in the Atlantic, although these remain non-threatening to land.
In summary, although Hurricane Erin has weakened from its initial category, the storm remains potent enough to pose significant risks to coastal regions and beachgoers. Safety precautions, including evacuations and beach closures from Florida to Massachusetts, are critical in mitigating the impact of this storm.
FAQ
1. What category is Hurricane Erin currently?
Hurricane Erin has been downgraded to a Category 2 storm.
2. Are there any evacuation orders related to Hurricane Erin?
Yes, mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island in North Carolina.
3. What are the expected weather conditions from Hurricane Erin?
Waves of 10 to 20 feet, with hazardous rip currents and potential rainfall of 1 to 4 inches, especially in the Outer Banks.
4. Who declared a state of emergency in relation to Hurricane Erin?
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources for storm response.
Key Features of Hurricane Erin
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Category | Category 2 |
| Initial Categories | Category 5 to Category 4 |
| Location as of Tuesday | 665 miles southwest of Bermuda |
| Expected Wave Heights | 10 to 20 feet |
| Rainfall Estimates for Outer Banks | 1 to 4 inches |
| Evacuation Areas | Hatteras Island, Ocracoke Island |
| State of Emergency | Declared by Governor Josh Stein |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Threatens Hilton Head with High Surf
No-Swimming Advisory Issued for Hilton Head Island
Hurricane Erin Weakens but Remains a Threat to the Carolinas
North Carolina’s Outer Banks Faces Hurricane Erin Evacuations
Rip Current Statement Issued as Hurricane Erin Intensifies
South Carolina Beaches Face High Rip Current Risk from Hurricane Erin
Hurricane Erin Downgraded to Category 4 as It Approaches East Coast
Local Surfers Brace for Hurricane Erin’s Impact
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Oconee and Anderson County
Hurricane Erin Downgraded: Important Updates
Additional Resources
- AP News: Hurricane Erin Downgraded
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Erin
- Fox Weather: Hurricane Erin Impacts
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin
- New York Times: Hurricane Erin Evacuations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Erin
- USA Today: Hurricane Erin Live Updates
- Google News: Hurricane Erin Updates
- NBC News: Hurricane Erin Growth
- The State: Local Coverage of Hurricane Erin
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
