Hurricane Erin forces closure of all New York beaches, as treacherous 13-foot waves and lethal rip currents pose a significant risk
On Tuesday, August 19, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that all Atlantic Ocean beaches in New York will be under a high surf advisory from Wednesday to Thursday, due to the approaching Hurricane Erin.
Hurricane Erin is predicted to generate dangerous waves up to 100 feet (30 meters) along the East Coast between August 20 and 21, with significant coastal flooding and life-threatening rip currents. Although Erin is not expected to make landfall, its large and powerful hurricane-force winds and swells will threaten coastal areas with hazardous surf conditions during that period.
Key details for the East Coast and New York region from August 20 to 21 include:
- Waves as high as 100 feet driven by the hurricane’s strong winds, particularly impacting beaches from the Outer Banks northward, which would include New York’s coastline.
- Coastal flooding watches issued early as of August 19, with flooding linked to these large waves and storm surge expected to persist through the period.
- Life-threatening rip currents will be widespread along East Coast beaches, including New York, making swimming and other water activities very dangerous.
- Although Erin remains offshore, sustained hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles from its center, contributing to hazardous marine and coastal conditions.
- The storm was a strong Category 4 hurricane around August 18-19 and is expected to remain a major hurricane through midweek.
In summary, the East Coast—particularly vulnerable areas like New York—faces extremely hazardous wave heights and surf conditions with 100-foot waves and severe coastal flooding risks from Hurricane Erin during August 20-21, despite the storm staying offshore.
Mayor Eric Adams stated that they are working with all city agencies to prepare for Hurricane Erin and ensure the safety of New Yorkers. As a precaution, the NYC Parks Department has decided to close all beaches in New York City from Wednesday, August 20, to Thursday, August 21. Lifeguards and park rangers will be stationed along the coast to ensure New Yorkers adhere to the water closures.
Governor Hochul advises New Yorkers living in potentially affected areas to seek safety and exercise caution until the storm subsides later this week. New Yorkers are urged to sign up for NotifyNYC to receive further information. You can track Hurricane Erin using the latest official forecast from the National Hurricane Center.
By mid to late week, Hurricane Erin is expected to develop into a "large and powerful hurricane". The National Weather Service expects large breaking waves up to three meters high along the shores of New York. Governor Hochul urges all New Yorkers to prepare for potential hazardous conditions at beaches and coastal cities.
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