Hurricane Erin Causes High Surf, Closes Jersey Shore Beaches to Swimmers

Hurricane Erin's Impact on the East Coast

• 🌀 Hurricane Erin is moving up the East Coast, posing the biggest threat to North Carolina's Outer Banks, where evacuations have been ordered.
• 🌊 Swimming is prohibited at all New York City, Long Island, and Jersey Shore beaches due to dangerous conditions.

Storm Strength and Path

• ⚡ The storm is strengthening, nearing Category 3 strength with 110 mph winds, and is over 600 miles wide.
• ⬆️ While the storm is moving north, it is expected to remain a significant hurricane off the coast through Friday.
• ⚠️ Local impacts are primarily focused on the coastline, including dangerous rip currents, large waves, beach erosion, and potential coastal flooding.

Jersey Shore Preparations and Conditions

• 🏖️ In Sea Bright, New Jersey, beaches are experiencing the water moving closer to the sand, with lifeguard stands relocated.
• 📈 Waves are expected to reach 7-8 ft in some areas and up to 15 ft, with rough surf leading to red flags and no-swimming advisories.
• 🏠 Residents like Chris Kaiser are grateful for post-Superstorm Sandy flood walls protecting their homes, while also preparing for potential flooding from the Shrewsbury River.
• ⏳ High tide is expected between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM in Sea Bright.

Long Island Erosion and Beach Closures

• 📉 Video from Lashley Beach in West Hampton shows signs of erosion along Dune Road.
• ⚠️ The National Weather Service anticipates widespread beach erosion, leading officials to close beaches ahead of the storm.