Millions to Be Hit by Massive Waves Across Three States
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Millions of people across at least three East Coast states can expect massive, life-threatening waves this week as Hurricane Erin passes by the U.S.
Why It Matters
As of the most recent update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Erin is a strong Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained wind speeds of 110 mph. Fluctuations in storm strength are possible over the next few days.
Although Erin won't be making landfall in the U.S, the massive storm will pass close enough to the East Coast to spur 20-foot waves in some cases, prompting warnings across North Carolina, Massachusetts and New York.
What to Know
One of the most severe risks facing the U.S. as the hurricane passes by will be dangerous ocean conditions. AccuWeather reported that beaches extending into the ocean, such as North Carolina's Outer Banks; Cape Cod, Massachusetts; and Long Island, New York, will face the largest waves.
A stock photo shows large waves in Long Island, New York.
A stock photo shows large waves in Long Island, New York.
WoodysPhotos/Getty
National Weather Service (NWS) offices have already issued myriad warnings related to the storm, including high surf advisories.
"Large, dangerous waves will likely inundate and destroy protective dune structures," said a high surf advisory issued by the NWS office in Morehead, North Carolina
In addition to the dangerous waves, "extreme beach and coastal damage" is likely.
"Actions will need to be taken to protect life and property. Very dangerous swimming and surfing conditions expected, as well as the wave action resulting in significant beach erosion," the North Carolina advisory said.
Even watching the waves can be dangerous, and NWS meteorologist Casey Dail urged people to not get too close.
"It's certainly going to get worse throughout the day today and really peaking tomorrow into Thursday," Dail told Newsweek. "We would advise people to not get too close."
Dangerous waves have already begun. A high surf advisory is already in place for Boston, Massachusetts. The advisory will go into effect for North Carolina beginning at noon on Tuesday. In New York, the high surf advisory will go into effect from 6 a.m. Wednesday to 6 p.m. Thursday.
In some areas, a storm surge watch also is in place.
What People Are Saying
NWS Morehead in a high surf advisory: "Everyone should remain out of the water due to extremely dangerous surf conditions."
NWS New York in a high surf advisory: "Life-threatening swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. Life-threatening rip currents are likely for all people entering the surf zone. Anyone visiting the beaches should stay out of the surf. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water."
What Happens Next
Beachgoers should stay out of the water while the dangerous waves are in effect. People in the impacted areas should monitor local weather guidance as the storm progresses.
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