Severe Flooding Strikes Outer Banks as Hurricane Erin Shifts Direction: What You Need to Know

Hurricane Erin has recently made its presence felt along the U.S. East Coast, especially in North Carolina. As the storm moves away, it has caused significant disruptions, including road closures in the Outer Banks and dangerous rip currents along the shoreline.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Erin, classified as a Category 2 hurricane with winds nearing 100 mph, is located about 285 miles east of Cape Hatteras. Despite not making landfall, the storm is still affecting a massive area, with tropical-storm-force winds extending over a 600-mile radius.

A storm surge warning is currently in place from Cape Lookout to Duck, N.C. This suggests that rising waters are a serious threat to coastal areas. Additionally, areas from Beaufort Inlet, N.C., to Chincoteague, Va., are under a tropical storm warning, and similar warnings have been issued for Bermuda.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has urged residents to avoid the ocean due to high waves and strong currents. The Outer Banks, a vulnerable barrier island region, often experiences hurricanes, and this storm is no exception. Reports indicate that severe ocean overwash affected areas like Buxton and Hatteras Village, with flooding causing significant damage.

Residents like Leslie Coleman characterized the situation as “pretty par for the course,” acknowledging the destructive nature of hurricanes while noting that this one is less severe than past storms. Tideland Electric, the local utility provider, confirmed that Ocracoke Island had not lost power, although they are inspecting their infrastructure.

In the wake of Erin, another wave of ocean overwash is expected with the evening’s high tide. Previous evacuation orders have been heeded by more than 2,000 residents and visitors in Ocracoke and Hatteras.

Historically, North Carolina has dealt with devastating storms. Just under a year ago, Hurricane Helene struck the western part of the state, claiming at least 250 lives. This history highlights the persistent risks hurricanes pose to the region.

Experts continue to emphasize preparedness as a key strategy for residents in hurricane-prone areas. According to the National Weather Service, areas along the East Coast, from Florida to Maine, should remain vigilant as rip currents remain a concern.

As Erin moves northeast into the Atlantic, it is expected to weaken over the following days, potentially dissipating below tropical storm status by Saturday.

For more updates on storm safety and alerts, you can check resources like the National Hurricane Center.

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