North Carolina, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Erin is wreaking havoc across North Carolina, with severe weather impacting coastal areas like Wrightsville Beach and the Outer Banks. Evacuations have taken place as dangerous storm conditions, including rip currents and flooding, pose significant risks. With the state of emergency declared by Governor Josh Stein, and a no swimming order enforced, residents must remain vigilant and heed warnings. As the storm continues to progress, officials emphasize safety and preparedness in managing Erin’s fallout.
North Carolina Braces for Hurricane Erin’s Impact
In the beautiful coastal city of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, residents and visitors alike are feeling the repercussions of Hurricane Erin. This fierce storm is causing great concern as it ravages the area with dangerous conditions, prompting officials to take urgent action. Tropical storm warnings are currently in effect from Beaufort Inlet all the way up to the North Carolina-Virginia border.
Severe Weather Hits the Outer Banks
The coastal regions, especially the picturesque Outer Banks, are facing severe effects from this powerful hurricane. Authorities are taking no chances as there is an active Storm Surge Warning for areas stretching from Cape Lookout to Duck, with wave heights predicted to reach between 2 to 4 feet. Wrightsville Beach has seen over 60 people rescued from rip currents in just a short span during this storm. To emphasize safety, a “no swimming” order will be enforced from August 19 to August 22 due to the extremely hazardous conditions.
Evacuations and Emergency Measures
The intensity of Hurricane Erin is reflected in the evacuation of more than 2,200 residents from Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. With flooding affecting the Outer Banks – surf has even washed over highways – North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency. Access to the oceans is being actively discouraged. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island has been closed to keep everyone safe.
About Hurricane Erin
Currently classified as a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of up to 105 mph, Erin is moving in a north-northwest direction at around 13 mph, expected to soon shift toward north and northeast. The storm’s force is significant; hurricane-force winds can stretch up to 90 miles from the center, while tropical storm-force winds reach 265 miles. Heavy rainfall is also anticipated, leading to dangerous surf and waves climbing as high as 30 feet.
The Warnings Extend Beyond North Carolina
Beaches in New Jersey and New York City have been closed due to life-threatening surf and rip currents, as the east coast braces for the full impact of Hurricane Erin. Emergency management officials in Virginia are on high alert, prepared to respond to any arising concerns as the storm approaches. It’s clear that this storm is taking no prisoners, and residents should remain cautious.
A Message of Safety
As Erin looms nearby, officials continue to stress the utmost importance of safety. Only essential personnel should remain in coastal areas, and beachgoers are urged to follow all advisory warnings. With the risk of life-threatening rip currents set to affect beaches along the entire U.S. East Coast, this is not the time to take unnecessary risks. Instead, everyone should remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest updates as this hurricane makes its rounds.
Staying Updated and Prepared
With data suggesting that Hurricane Erin is predicted to weaken as it moves past Atlantic Canada, the most immediate concerns lie in managing its effects on the Carolinas. North Carolina has even requested a major disaster declaration to assist in addressing the impacts of the storm. As always, preparedness and caution are key during these tumultuous times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under tropical storm warnings?
Tropical storm warnings are in effect from Beaufort Inlet, North Carolina, to the North Carolina-Virginia border.
How many rescues have occurred due to rip currents?
Over 60 people have been rescued from rip currents specifically at Wrightsville Beach during this storm.
What precautions are being taken on the beaches?
A “no swimming” order is in place at Wrightsville Beach from August 19 to August 22 due to hazardous conditions.
What is the status of Hurricane Erin?
Hurricane Erin is currently a Category 2 storm with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph, and it’s anticipated to weaken as it passes south of Atlantic Canada.
Key Features of Hurricane Erin
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Category | Category 2 |
| Max Winds | 105 mph |
| Wave Heights | Up to 30 feet |
| Evacuations | 2,200 residents in Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands |
| Warnings Issued | Tropical Storm and Storm Surge |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Strengthens as It Approaches the U.S. East Coast
Hilton Head Beachgoers on Alert as Hurricane Erin Approaches
North Carolina’s Outer Banks Faces Erosion and Home Crises
Hurricane Erin Downgraded to Category 2 Amid Beach Closures
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
Additional Resources
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.
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