North Carolina, August 20, 2025
News Summary
North Carolina is bracing for Hurricane Erin, a rapidly intensifying Category 5 storm. Mandatory evacuations are ordered in coastal areas, including Dare and Hyde counties. Residents are advised to finalize evacuation plans and prepare emergency kits as the storm could cause severe winds, flooding, and dangerous surf. The state has declared a state of emergency, and shelters are available for evacuees, including those with pets. Significant impacts, including high winds and coastal flooding, are expected as the storm approaches.
Charlotte, North Carolina – North Carolina Prepares for Hurricane Erin
North Carolina is on high alert as Hurricane Erin, the first named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, approaches the coast. The storm, which has rapidly intensified from a Category 1 to a Category 5 hurricane in a 24-hour period, is expected to cause severe coastal impacts, including high winds, flooding, and dangerous surf conditions.
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in Dare and Hyde counties, including Ocracoke and Hatteras islands, due to anticipated tropical storm force winds and life-threatening storm surges. The local states of emergency were declared to facilitate the evacuation processes and ensure safety measures are in place.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has reported that Hatteras and Ocracoke islands may experience the worst effects of the storm by Thursday. Wind gusts are expected to exceed 40 mph, with powerful waves reaching heights of 15 to 20 feet and significant coastal flooding expected.
As part of the state’s emergency response, members of Charlotte Fire’s North Carolina Task Force 3 deployed to eastern North Carolina on Tuesday morning, establishing a staging area in Edenton. This task force could potentially remain in the area for up to 14 days, depending on the storm’s impact and the resulting needs of the community.
Governor Josh Stein declared a State of Emergency on Tuesday in anticipation of Hurricane Erin’s impact. He will conduct a media briefing on Wednesday to provide updates regarding the storm and state response efforts. Residents are advised to finalize their evacuation plans, prepare emergency kits, and monitor local weather updates closely.
Evacuees can utilize the State Operated Disaster Shelter in Warrenton, which is open to families and pets. For real-time updates on road conditions, individuals can check DriveNC.gov, and for emergency information related to the storm, residents can visit ReadyNC.gov/Erin.
Weather forecasters indicate that although Hurricane Erin is expected to move parallel to the east coast and stay out to sea, it will still generate conditions dangerous enough to affect North Carolina, especially in coastal areas. Residents should remain vigilant as rip currents and rough surf are already reported along the Outer Banks.
Early forecasts from meteorologists also suggest that subsequent disturbances may follow Hurricane Erin, with the first showing a 60% chance of tropical development. The second disturbance, currently off the coast of Africa, has a 30% chance of becoming a cyclone, although conditions may not favor its development if it does not form by the end of the week.
Key Impacts Expected from Hurricane Erin
- Severe winds exceeding 40 mph
- Waves of 15 to 20 feet
- Extensive beach erosion
- Coastal flooding and life-threatening rip currents
Storm Timeline and Preparedness
As the storm continues to develop over the next 48 hours, residents are encouraged to remain well-informed and prepared throughout this period of uncertainty. The NWS has issued Tropical Storm and Storm Surge Watches for various regions in anticipation of Erin’s path.
Evacuation Advisory and Emergency Resources
Residents in the affected areas are strongly advised to adhere to evacuation orders and utilize available shelters for safety. Emergency services are prepared to support evacuations and assist those adversely affected by Hurricane Erin once it has passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What precautions should residents take during Hurricane Erin?
Residents should prepare emergency kits, finalize evacuation plans, and stay updated on weather conditions and evacuation orders.
Where can evacuees find shelter during Hurricane Erin?
The State Operated Disaster Shelter in Warrenton is available for evacuees, and it allows pets.
What impacts are expected from Hurricane Erin?
Severe winds, massive waves, coastal flooding, and dangerous rip currents are anticipated along the North Carolina coast.
Chart of Key Features of Hurricane Erin
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | 5 (rapidly intensified) |
| Peak Winds | Exceeding 40 mph |
| Expected Wave Heights | 15 to 20 feet |
| Areas Under Evacuation | Dare and Hyde counties, Ocracoke, and Hatteras islands |
| State of Emergency Declared | Yes |
| Potential for Tropical Development | Two disturbances following Erin |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: State of Emergency for Hurricane Erin
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Erin (2025)
- WBTV: Systems Following Hurricane Erin
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin 2025
- Spectrum News: Live Cams Tracking Hurricane Erin
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Erin
- WCNC: Hurricane Erin Intensification
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Erin
- WBTV: Impacts of Hurricane Erin
- Google News: Hurricane Erin
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
