Hurricane Erin Skirts East Coast, Bringing Coastal Impacts
Washington, D.C. – Hurricane Erin, a Category 2 storm, is currently tracking parallel to the United States East Coast, bringing significant coastal impacts despite moving offshore. With sustained winds of 105 miles per hour, the hurricane's expansive windfield is causing hazardous conditions for communities from North Carolina to New Jersey.
Current Status and Trajectory
As of Thursday, August 21, 2025, Hurricane Erin is a Category 2 hurricane, though it has shown signs of weakening. Forecasters indicate a possibility of brief restrengthening to a Category 3 before it transitions into a post-tropical system by the weekend. The storm is moving rapidly to the north-northeast at 17 miles per hour, largely paralleling the coastline.
East Coast on Alert
The primary concern for coastal areas is the widespread impact from Erin's large windfield. Tropical storm warnings are in effect for a considerable stretch of the eastern seaboard, specifically from central North Carolina up to central New Jersey.
Key impacts include:
- Rough Beach Conditions: Beaches along the affected coastline are experiencing exceptionally rough surf and dangerous currents.
- Coastal Flooding: The storm's proximity and strong winds are contributing to coastal flooding in vulnerable areas.
- Environmental Concerns: There are reports of impacts on local wildlife, including Volusia turtle nests, as authorities work to mitigate the effects.
While the storm's direct path remains offshore, residents in the affected coastal regions are advised to remain vigilant and heed local advisories regarding beach conditions and potential flooding. Florida, further south, is not currently under any tropical threat from Erin.
Looking Ahead
Hurricane Erin is expected to continue its north-northeasterly trajectory, gradually weakening and transitioning into a post-tropical system over the weekend. This will lead to a gradual reduction in coastal impacts as the storm moves further out to sea.
Sources: