North Carolina, August 20, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Erin, now a Category 2 storm with wind speeds of 110 mph, poses significant threats to North Carolina’s coastal areas. Despite remaining offshore, the Outer Banks are bracing for high waves reaching up to 20 feet, substantial flooding risk, and a storm surge of 4 to 6 feet. Residents are urged to stay vigilant, secure outdoor items, and avoid beach access as severe weather conditions are expected. Rainfall could amount to 2 inches, alongside wind gusts of 50 mph. Local authorities recommend closely monitoring weather updates.
Hurricane Erin Approaches North Carolina, Threatening Coastal Communities with High Winds and Dangerous Waves
North Carolina is bracing for Hurricane Erin, which has weakened to a Category 2 hurricane with sustained wind speeds of 110 mph. Although the storm is predicted to remain hundreds of miles offshore, coastal communities, particularly the Outer Banks, are facing significant threats due to high waves and potential flooding.
Wave heights are projected to reach 20 feet (6 meters) or greater, causing dangerous conditions along the shoreline. The coastal areas may experience worsening conditions, including heightened risks of flooding and beach erosion. Rainfall estimations indicate that residents may see up to 2 inches from now through late Thursday. Furthermore, coastal wind gusts could reach as high as 50 mph.
A concerning storm surge between 4 to 6 feet is also anticipated, compounding risks for property and safety in these coastal areas. Reports indicate that sections of NC12, the main road along the Outer Banks, may become impassable due to water overtopping the roadway. Earlier today, there were documented incidents of water surging over the road during high tide.
Beachgoers are being warned of hazardous conditions as the National Weather Service has reported severe weather generating wave heights between 10 to 20 feet. In a single day, there were 85 rescues reported due to rip currents along the North Carolina coast, highlighting the perilous situation facing those venturing into the water.
As the storm approaches, local forecasts expect a mix of decreasing clouds with a chance for scattered thunderstorms throughout the afternoon, with temperatures reaching a high of 79°F. Conditions are set to shift later in the evening, with an expected low of 64°F. Winds are predicted to initially blow from the southeast at 5 to 10 mph but are set to shift to a northeastern direction later in the day.
Forecasts indicate a 40% chance of rain this afternoon, increasing to 60% during the evening and overnight hours. The approach of Erin might lead to isolated showers, particularly east of Wake County, although significant thunderstorm activity is not expected due to low Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE) levels.
Looking ahead, a weather front is expected to move southwards over the weekend, potentially setting the stage for additional thunderstorms.
Stay Prepared
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and to follow local advisories as Hurricane Erin continues to progress. Safety measures include securing loose outdoor items, staying indoors during high wind events, and closely monitoring local weather updates.
FAQs
What category is Hurricane Erin currently?
Hurricane Erin is currently a Category 2 hurricane with sustained wind speeds of 110 mph.
How high are the predicted waves along the North Carolina coast?
Waves are expected to reach heights of 20 feet (6 meters) or greater along the North Carolina coast.
What safety measures should those in affected areas take?
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid going to the beach, and stay indoors during severe weather conditions.
Will there be rain associated with Hurricane Erin?
Yes, rainfall of up to 2 inches is possible from today through late Thursday, with a 60% chance of rain during the evening and overnight hours.
Key Features of Hurricane Erin
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | 2 |
| Wind Speed | 110 mph |
| Predicted Wave Height | 20 feet (6 meters) |
| Rainfall | Up to 2 inches |
| Storm Surge | Up to 6 feet |
| Wind Gusts | Up to 50 mph |
| Incidents of Water Overtopping NC12 | Reported at high tide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Forces Evacuations in Dare County
Hurricane Erin Forces Mandatory Evacuations in North Carolina
Hurricane Erin Threatens North Carolina with Mandatory Evacuations
Hurricane Erin Approaches North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Hits North Carolina as a Category 2 Storm
Maryland Beaches Closed Due to Hurricane Erin’s Threats
Hurricane Erin Approaches North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Forces Evacuations in Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Forces Evacuations in Outer Banks, NC
Outer Banks, North Carolina Braces for Hurricane Erin
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Hurricane Erin Track & Coastal Impacts
- News Observer: Hurricane Erin News
- 13 News Now: Severe Weather Forecast
- ABC11: NC Weather Forecast
- AccuWeather: Thunderstorms Wreak Havoc in Texas
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Erin
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Erin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Erin
- 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.
