Hurricane Erin to drench parts of Virginia while brushing US east coast

August 21, 2025

Hurricane Erin, currently moving northward along the U.S. East Coast without making landfall, is generating life-threatening rip currents and dangerous conditions expected to persist for several days. The large category-two hurricane with sustained winds of 105mph has already soaked parts of the Atlantic coastline including North Carolina's Outer Banks, prompting beach closures, evacuations, and states of emergency. Weather officials warn beachgoers to heed safety advisories as the storm brings tropical conditions to Virginia and high wind warnings to New England.

Who is affected

Residents and visitors of the U.S. East Coast, particularly in North Carolina's Outer Banks
Communities in Hatteras and Ocracoke that were ordered to evacuate
Beachgoers and swimmers facing dangerous conditions
Carol Dillon, a 96-year-old motel owner on Hatteras concerned about property damage
Residents of Virginia and New England regions facing tropical storm conditions and high winds
People in Turks and Caicos where public services were suspended
More than 150,000 people in Puerto Rico who temporarily lost power

What action is being taken

Officials are warning about life-threatening rip currents and dangerous surf conditions
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency
Authorities are closing beaches along the East Coast
Communities in Hatteras and Ocracoke are being evacuated
National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service are providing updates on the hurricane
Local authorities and lifeguards are advising beachgoers on safety precautions

Why it matters

The hurricane poses immediate life-threatening dangers to swimmers through rip currents and powerful waves
Coastal communities face flooding, property damage, and isolation as in the Outer Banks
The storm is disrupting daily life through evacuations, beach closures, and power outages
This is the first hurricane of what's predicted to be an above-average 2025 Atlantic hurricane season
North Carolina is still recovering from last year's Hurricane Helene, compounding the impact
Warmer sea temperatures linked to climate change are contributing to more favorable conditions for hurricanes
Cuts to American research could impair the ability to track and prepare for future storms

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC