Outer Banks, North Carolina, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Erin is approaching the Outer Banks of North Carolina, prompting concerns over damaging surf and significant coastal flooding. With a State of Emergency declared for Dare County and mandatory evacuations for Hatteras Island, residents are urged to prioritize their safety. Wind speeds are expected to reach 40-60 mph, contributing to power outages. The storm surge could reach up to 15 feet, with areas potentially experiencing up to 20 feet. Critical conditions are predicted from late Tuesday to Thursday, posing risks to infrastructure and homes.
Outer Banks, North Carolina Braces for Hurricane Erin
Hurricane Erin is set to impact the North Carolina Outer Banks this week, with forecasts indicating damaging surf and significant coastal flooding. The storm, classified as a major hurricane, features winds and waves that extend far beyond its eye, raising substantial concerns for residents and authorities alike.
A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for the coastal region from Beaufort Inlet to Duck, North Carolina, including the Pamlico Sound. Although Erin’s eye is expected to maneuver at least 150 miles offshore, the storm’s size and intensity are likely to cause serious issues such as flooding and erosion in the area.
State of Emergency and Evacuation Orders
In response to the impending threat, officials have declared a State of Emergency for Dare County. A mandatory evacuation order has been rolled out for Hatteras Island, urging residents to leave their homes to prioritize safety as the storm approaches.
Wind and Wave Conditions
Currently, Hurricane Erin is producing hurricane-force winds that extend up to 80 miles from its center, with tropical storm winds reaching as far as 230 miles. As these winds are expected to hit the Outer Banks, wind gusts ranging from 40 to 60 mph are anticipated, potentially leading to widespread power outages.
The storm is currently experiencing an eyewall replacement cycle, which is causing its wind field to expand. As a result, dangerous surf conditions are likely to develop along the southern Atlantic coast, contributed significantly by the massive waves generated by Erin.
Predicted Flooding and Storm Surge
The storm surge anticipated from Hurricane Erin ranges from 1 to 3 feet in various areas, with parts of eastern North Carolina expecting surges between 3 to 6 feet. Critically, the Outer Banks could experience a storm surge of 10 to 15 feet, with localized regions possibly reaching highs of 20 feet, depending on the storm’s proximity.
The worst conditions are projected to hit between late Tuesday and Thursday of this week. Severe flooding and overwash are likely to affect sections of North Carolina Highway 12, posing a risk of significant damage to the roadway. Furthermore, the danger of homes on the barrier islands being washed into the sea remains a stark possibility.
Recovery Outlook
As Hurricane Erin steers northeast late in the week, conditions in the Outer Banks are anticipated to improve. However, damage from the storm may leave some areas inaccessible, complicating recovery efforts in the aftermath of the storm.
Conclusion
Residents of the Outer Banks should take all necessary precautions and adhere to evacuation orders where issued. As Hurricane Erin approaches, community safety measures are critical in mitigating potential impacts from this powerful storm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What areas are under a Tropical Storm Watch?
The Tropical Storm Watch is in effect from Beaufort Inlet to Duck, including Pamlico Sound.
2. When are the worst conditions expected?
The most severe conditions are expected from late Tuesday to Thursday.
3. What is the expected storm surge for the Outer Banks?
Storm surge could reach up to 10 to 15 feet, with some isolated areas potentially experiencing surges as high as 20 feet.
4. What safety measures should residents take?
Residents are advised to follow evacuation orders and prepare their homes for potential flooding and power outages.
Key Features of Hurricane Erin
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Classification | Major Hurricane |
| Wind Speeds | Hurricane-force winds extend up to 80 miles; tropical storm winds up to 230 miles |
| Expected Wind Gusts | 40-60 mph on Outer Banks |
| Storm Surge Predictions | 1-3 feet across various areas; 3-6 feet in parts of eastern NC; 10-15 feet in Outer Banks |
| Evacuation Orders | Mandatory for Hatteras Island |
| State of Emergency | Declared for Dare County |
| Expected Conditions | Worst conditions from late Tuesday to Thursday |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Triggers Evacuations and Warnings Along U.S. East Coast
Hurricane Erin Strengthens as It Approaches Outer Banks, NC
Hurricane Erin Forces Evacuations in Hatteras, NC
Hurricane Erin Weakens, Still Threatens East Coast
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
Additional Resources
- The Weather Channel: Florence Graham, CA
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Erin
- WYFF: South Carolina Biden Visit and Helene Destruction
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin
- WRAL: Historical Flooding in North Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Erin
- CBS News: Suspects Wanted in Florence Stabbing
- Google News: Hurricane Erin
- ABC7: 91-Year-Old Woman Fights Off Intruder
- WBTW: Local Weather and News
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.
