Norfolk, Virginia – Winds are set to intensify along the Virginia coast by Wednesday night as Hurricane Erin churns offshore, bringing a threat of tropical storm-force gusts, beach erosion, and tidal flooding from Virginia Beach to the Chesapeake Bay.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Virginia Beach, Currituck County, and nearby coastal waters, including the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay and Currituck Sound. North to northeast winds could gust as high as 45 knots between Wednesday night and Thursday evening, with the worst conditions expected Thursday afternoon.
Although Erin is not forecast to make landfall in Virginia, the storm’s large size and northerly track will send impacts well beyond the official forecast cone. Outer rainbands may sweep across eastern Virginia, bringing locally heavy rain, stronger winds, and coastal flooding. The risk for significant beach and dune erosion is also rising, especially during high tide cycles Thursday into Friday.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, stay off beaches during high surf periods, and monitor updates from local emergency management. Conditions may worsen if Erin shifts further west.
Warnings and tidal alerts may be expanded as Erin strengthens offshore.
