Morehead City, N.C. – Dangerous winds are expected to batter North Carolina’s coast tonight as Hurricane Erin continues tracking northward, bringing the Outer Banks into its expanding impact zone.
According to the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service in Morehead City, hurricane-force winds now extend up to 105 miles from Erin’s eye, with tropical storm-force winds stretching outward more than 265 miles. GOES satellite imagery as of 3 p.m. Monday shows the massive storm system swirling off the southeastern coast, with outer rain bands already approaching Cape Lookout.
The Outer Banks—including areas like Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and Hatteras Island—are expected to begin experiencing tropical storm conditions by late evening. Dangerous surf and coastal flooding remain high risks along NC-12 and other barrier island roads. Residents in Carteret, Dare, and Hyde counties are urged to secure loose outdoor items, charge devices, and avoid non-essential travel.
Ferry service interruptions and power outages are likely overnight. Emergency management teams are coordinating response efforts, with shelters on standby depending on Erin’s final track.
Watches and warnings will continue to update through Tuesday as the storm moves northward. North Carolina residents should monitor official channels and prepare for worsening conditions overnight.
