Hurricane Erin to drench parts of Virginia while brushing US east coast

Hurricane Erin, the first major storm of the 2025 Atlantic season, is stirring dangerous surf, rip currents, and strong winds along the US East Coast, despite not making landfall. Officials warn the risks will last for days, with beaches closed, evacuations ordered, and flooding fears growing, BBC reported.

North Carolina’s Outer Banks are already seeing tropical storm conditions, and impacts are expected to spread north into Virginia and New England. Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency, urging people to stay out of the water after dozens of rescues.

Once a Category Five, Erin is now a Category Two hurricane with winds of 105mph (165km/h). It has already knocked out power to thousands in Puerto Rico and disrupted life in Turks and Caicos. Authorities continue to urge coastal residents to follow safety guidance, according to BBC.