Deadly Rip Currents Threaten East Coast as Hurricane Erin Intensifies

As of 2025-08-20T00:27:04+00:00, Hurricane Erin is expected to have a significant impact on the US East Coast, particularly in Florida and North Carolina. The powerful storm, which is currently a strong Category 2 hurricane, is forecast to bring large waves, rough surf, and life-threatening rip currents to the region.

According to the National Hurricane Center, Erin is a large hurricane, with hurricane-force winds extending up to 80 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds reaching up to 205 miles. Swells generated by the storm could produce wave heights of 20 to 30 feet, and possibly up to 50 feet near the storm's center. These massive waves are expected to impact much of Florida's coastline, increasing the likelihood of dangerous and potentially deadly rip currents.

In response to the threat, officials in North Carolina's Outer Banks have issued mandatory evacuation orders for both visitors and residents. The storm surge and coastal flooding associated with Erin are expected to pose a significant risk to the region, with the potential for road washouts and other infrastructure damage.

Experts are urging everyone, including surfers, to stay out of the ocean due to the high risk of rip currents. The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Advisory for the area, with breakers reaching up to 11 feet on Wednesday, 2025-08-21.