North Carolina Governor Josh Stein Urges Residents to Take Hurricane Erin Seriously

Hurricane Erin Threatens North Carolina

• ⚠️ Governor Josh Stein is urging North Carolina residents to take Hurricane Erin seriously as it is currently a Category 2 storm and expected to strengthen.
• 🎯 The storm poses significant dangers, with anticipated coastal flooding, tropical storm-force winds, and tidal and storm surge impacting much of the state's shoreline.

Coastal Dangers and Impacts

• 🌊 Residents on the coast should prepare for massive waves and life-threatening rip currents, with no one advised to be in the ocean.
• 📈 Extensive beach erosion is expected along much of the coast, with dangerous conditions potentially felt far from the storm's eye.
• 📊 Forecasts indicate extremely large, dangerous waves reaching around 20 feet and storm surge of 2 to 4 feet on top of surf, particularly affecting the Outer Banks and east/southeast facing beaches.

Infrastructure and Duration of Event

• 🚗 Numerous roadways, especially Highway 12 and communities on barrier islands, are expected to become impassable due to flooding.
• ⏳ This is anticipated to be a longer-duration event, with coastal flooding expected to persist over several high tide cycles, impacting the state from this evening through Thursday.