North Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Erin, now a high-end Category 2 storm, has prompted serious coastal hazards in North Carolina, particularly on the Outer Banks. The National Weather Service has issued warnings of dangerous rip currents and high surf, leading to mandatory evacuations in some areas. With significant storm impacts expected, beachgoers are urged to exercise caution as the storm’s effects ripple through the region.
Hurricane Erin Triggers Life-Threatening Coastal Conditions in North Carolina
North Carolina’s Outer Banks are currently facing significant hazards due to Hurricane Erin, which has intensified to a high-end Category 2 storm. The National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City issued an updated beach hazards statement, effective until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, warning of life-threatening rip currents and high surf conditions.
The NWS cautions that rip currents can sweep even the strongest swimmers into deeper waters, the conditions posing considerable danger for beachgoers. In particular, there is a moderate risk of rip currents forecasted for Thursday, and yellow flags are being flown along the beaches to alert visitors. Conversely, the Crystal Coast is experiencing a low risk of rip currents at this time.
On Monday alone, North Carolina saw approximately 90 rescues due to rip currents, with New Hanover County reporting at least 75 incidents on its southern coast. As a precaution, Wrightsville Beach has issued a no-swim advisory through Friday. Surf City’s Ocean Rescue Services reported 15 rescues as they adapted to the challenging conditions.
Tropical Storm Warning and State of Emergency
A tropical storm warning has been put in place, extending from the central portion of North Carolina’s coast to Duck, with expectations of tropical-storm-force winds hitting the region within the next 36 hours. Additionally, a tropical storm watch has been initiated for the northern regions of the Outer Banks extending to Cape Charles Light, Virginia.
Consequently, Dare and Hyde counties, which encompass much of the Outer Banks, have declared local states of emergency and issued mandatory evacuations for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. Concerns over significant coastal flooding are prevalent, particularly as North Carolina’s Highway 12 may become inaccessible for several days.
Potential Impacts and Future Developments
As Hurricane Erin tracks northward, it is not expected to make landfall but will continue to create perilous coastal conditions along the East Coast. The storm’s winds are reaching over 200 miles from its center, projected to extend over 280 miles by Thursday. These conditions may result in waves measuring 20 feet or more, contributing to severe beach erosion and an increased risk of coastal flooding.
The tides in the Outer Banks are anticipated to reach their highest levels of the month on Wednesday and Thursday, further elevating the flooding risks. Additionally, forecasters are closely monitoring two areas in the Atlantic that may develop into new tropical systems, with a medium chance of new storms forming.
If these systems do develop, the next tropical storms will be named Fernand and Gabrielle. As of now, Hurricane Erin continues to influence weather patterns across the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, posing ongoing risks and challenges for the region’s residents and visitors alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are rip currents and how can someone handle them?
Rip currents are powerful currents of water flowing away from the shore. If caught in one, the best advice is to stay calm, swim parallel to the shore until free of the current, and signal for help if needed.
What areas in North Carolina are under a tropical storm warning?
A tropical storm warning extends from the central portion of North Carolina’s coast to Duck, including parts of the Outer Banks, with expectations of strong winds and coastal hazards.
What should residents do in light of the local states of emergency?
Residents of Dare and Hyde counties, particularly in Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, are advised to comply with evacuation orders and prepare for significant coastal flooding and other hazards.
Chart: Key Features of Hurricane Erin and Its Impact
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Category | High-end Category 2 |
| Rip Current Risk | Moderate risk on Thursday |
| Current Rescues | 90 reported rescues on Monday |
| Mandatory Evacuations | Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands |
| Tidal Peaks | Highest levels of the month expected Wednesday and Thursday |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Motorist Delays on N.C. Highway 12 Due to Waterline Project
Hurricane Erin Triggers High-Risk Conditions Along North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Triggers Evacuations in Hatteras, NC
Homes in Rodanthe Threatened by Hurricane Erin and Erosion
Rodanthe Residents Brace for Hurricane Erin’s Fury
Dare County Property Tax Base Sees Dramatic Increase in 2020
Discover the Tranquility of Northern Outer Banks in Autumn
N.C. Highway 12 Reopens After Hurricane Erin Flooding
Beach Hazards Statement Issued for Northern Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Threatens East Coast with High Winds and Flooding
Additional Resources
- WITN: High Rip Currents on Many Beaches
- Wikipedia: Rip Current
- News Observer: Weather News
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin Outer Banks
- ABC7NY: Hurricane Erin Forces Evacuations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
- Charlotte Observer: Weather News
- Google News: Tropical Storm Warning North Carolina
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.
