ORLANDO, Fla. – Now a large and powerful storm, Hurricane Erin continues to track in the eastern Atlantic.
While the storm is expected to stay several hundred miles east of Florida, latest models do nudge the track slightly west, bringing tropical storm force winds closer to the Mid-Atlantic and even parts of southern New England later this week.
The storm is growing in size, and while it’s not forecast to make direct landfall, its impacts are expanding and intensifying up the Eastern Seaboard.
As of 11am Tuesday, Erin was a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds near 105 mph, though the system has become more asymmetric due to wind shear and dry air.
Erin is expected to maintain hurricane strength through at least Friday, with its massive wind field stretching wider than previously forecast.
The storm is beginning to recurve to the north and northeast, staying offshore but tracking uncomfortably close to the eastern U.S.
Forecast models show a continued westward trend, which means tropical storm conditions could reach parts of the North Carolina Outer Banks as early as Wednesday night, where Tropical Storm and Storm Surge Watches are in effect.
Florida Hazards
While Florida remains well west of Erin’s forecast track, it will still bring dangerous conditions for beachgoers and boaters.
Strong swells from Erin are producing pounding surf and dangerous rip currents, particularly around high tides.
A High Surf and Small Craft Advisory are in effect along the coast and nearshore waters.
People should avoid entering the water this week, as surf conditions remain hazardous and beach erosion is possible.