Wilmington, NC, August 18, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Erin has weakened to a strong Category 3 storm but continues to pose a significant threat to the East Coast of the United States. Currently located about 960 miles from Cape Hatteras, it is moving west-northwest with maximum sustained winds nearing 130 mph. While it is forecasted to remain offshore, the storm could create life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents along the East Coast. Evacuations have been ordered for Hatteras Island as authorities prepare for potential impacts.
Wilmington, NC – Hurricane Erin, which rapidly gained strength earlier this week, has weakened to a strong Category 3 storm but still poses a significant threat to the East Coast of the United States. As of the latest update, Erin is approximately 960 miles south-southeast of Cape Hatteras, moving west-northwest at a speed of 12 mph, with maximum sustained winds of nearly 130 mph. Although forecasted to stay offshore, officials are warning that Erin may create life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents along the U.S. East Coast, particularly in the Cape Fear region.
The National Hurricane Center has indicated that Erin remains a potentially dangerous storm with the possibility of re-intensification as it approaches the Gulf Stream. The waters there are warmer than historical averages, providing “near perfect” conditions for rapid intensification due to warm waters and low wind shear. This could potentially increase the size and strength of the storm over the next 48 hours. Furthermore, even though Erin is not expected to make landfall, its size and strength could still impact the U.S. mainland significantly.
Beaches spanning from Florida to New England and extending into Atlantic Canada should anticipate rough surf and hazardous rip currents as Erin continues to track north and northeast. Due to the storm’s escalating threat, Dare County officials have ordered an evacuation of Hatteras Island, beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday for visitors and 8 a.m. on Tuesday for residents.
Boaters are also likely to encounter dangerous conditions beginning August 18. Long-period swells produced by Erin will result in hazardous boating conditions in areas such as Frying Pan Shoals, Winyah Bay, Cape Fear River, and nearby inlets. Meteorologists are advising all beachgoers to exercise extreme caution and to remain aware of the potential dangers associated with rip currents, which historically are the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the Carolinas.
Preparation and Safety
Rip currents can occur even miles away from the storm’s actual location. Signs of these currents include dark, choppy water and breaks in the wave patterns. Should swimmers find themselves caught in a rip current, they should relax and swim parallel to the shore before making their way back to the beach. With hurricane season lasting from June 1 to November, authorities stress the importance of preparedness.
In addition to the threat posed by Erin, Southeastern North Carolina is grappling with significant rainfall, with more than 6 inches recorded at Wilmington International Airport in August alone. This excessive rainfall raises concerns about flooding conditions, especially in areas already prone to standing water. In July, Wilmington experienced nearly 7.6 inches of precipitation, slightly above the normal average of 6.8 inches. The forecast indicates that more rain is expected, further exacerbating these flooding concerns.
Emergency Preparedness
As weather patterns evolve, residents are urged to stay updated on storm progress and emergency preparedness measures. Shelters and additional resources are being prepared for communities potentially affected by Hurricane Erin’s impacts. Alongside maintaining awareness about the storm’s developments, it is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and ensure that emergency supplies are readily available.
As Hurricane Erin continues its path, vigilance and preparation will be critical for ensuring safety for communities along the East Coast.
FAQ
What category is Hurricane Erin currently?
Hurricane Erin is currently classified as a strong Category 3 storm.
Is Hurricane Erin expected to make landfall?
The forecast suggests that Hurricane Erin will stay offshore, but it may still impact the U.S. mainland with hazardous surf and rip currents.
What areas are under evacuation orders due to Hurricane Erin?
Dare County officials have ordered an evacuation of Hatteras Island, beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday for visitors and 8 a.m. on Tuesday for residents.
What safety measures should beachgoers take during Hurricane Erin?
Beachgoers are advised to stay alert for high rip currents, avoid swimming when conditions are dangerous or choppy, and ensure they have emergency plans in place.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Strengthens to Category 4: North Carolina Prepares for Impact
Dare County Declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Erin Approaches
North Carolina’s Outer Banks Under Mandatory Evacuations as Hurricane Erin Approaches
North Carolina Prepares for Hurricane Erin’s Approach
Dare County Declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Erin Approaches
Hurricane Erin Downgraded to Category 3 Storm in Puerto Rico
Hurricane Erin Weakens to Category 3: Impact Spreads Across the Caribbean
Hurricane Erin Rapidly Intensifies to Category 5
Hurricane Erin Intensifies to Category 2 Near Leeward Islands
Hurricane Erin Threatens Oceanfront Homes in Rodanthe, NC
Additional Resources
- Star News Online: Hurricane Erin Update
- WECT: First Alert Forecast on Hurricane Erin
- ABC11: Tropical Storm Erin Tracking
- WECT: Possible Track of Hurricane Erin
- Fayetteville Observer: Weekend Weather Forecast
- Wikipedia: Hurricane
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Erin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricanes
- Google News: Hurricane Erin
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare 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 Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
