As of 6:15 PM EST on August 18, 2025, Hurricane Erin continues its powerful trajectory in the Atlantic, and while the eye of the storm is expected to stay offshore, its wide-reaching impact is already being felt across the U.S. East Coast -- including New York City. Currently classified as a Category 4 hurricane, Erin is producing sustained winds of 140 mph and moving west-northwest at a pace of 10 mph. The storm's immense size and energy are fueling life-threatening conditions hundreds of miles from its center.
Hurricane Erin is situated east of the Bahamas and is forecast to veer north and then northeast mid-week. While it is not expected to make landfall in the continental United States, its outer bands and storm swells will pose major threats to coastal communities as it moves parallel to the U.S. coastline. The National Hurricane Center projects the storm will pass between Bermuda and the East Coast before eventually moving out to sea by the weekend.
Despite its offshore path, the storm's sheer intensity and wide circulation will deliver high-impact weather conditions to several regions, with the Northeast expected to experience the worst by Thursday and Friday.
For New York City residents, the main concern isn't wind or rainfall -- but the ocean itself. Coastal warnings have been issued across Long Island, the Jersey Shore, and NYC beaches due to Erin's massive ocean swells. Forecast models show wave heights reaching 15 to 20 feet, especially along the South Shore of Long Island and parts of New Jersey.
Lifeguards and emergency management teams are urging all swimmers and surfers to stay out of the water due to the high risk of rip currents. NYC officials have already begun putting beach restrictions in place, with red flags up at many public access points from Coney Island to Rockaway Beach.
Winds gusting up to 30 mph may also be felt along the waterfront, but the most notable concerns will be coastal erosion and localized flooding. Low-lying areas along the coast could see water breach typical high tide lines, particularly during peak tides later this week.
While inland Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx are expected to avoid serious disruption, breezy conditions and slightly cooler-than-average temperatures are expected. There's also a possibility of isolated rain showers from the storm's outer bands -- but nothing widespread.
While New York City is bracing for high surf and flooding, the Carolinas -- particularly North Carolina's Outer Banks -- are facing a much more serious threat. The barrier islands, including Hatteras and Ocracoke, have already been placed under mandatory evacuation orders as waves as high as 20 feet are projected to slam the coast.
Storm surge, road closures, and widespread power outages are anticipated. Emergency services have been mobilized across the state, and residents are being urged to evacuate while roads remain open.
Earlier today, Erin's outer bands caused flooding and power outages across Puerto Rico and parts of the Bahamas. While the eye stayed hundreds of miles away, the peripheral impact was enough to damage infrastructure and disrupt power to thousands of homes. Floodwaters in some neighborhoods reached waist-deep levels, and emergency crews have been working through the day to restore electricity and clear blocked roads.
Even without direct landfall, hurricanes of Erin's size can create dangerous conditions far from the center. Coastal residents, especially in areas with a history of erosion or flooding, should take precautions now.
By Thursday and Friday, New York City and the surrounding region will see peak surf conditions. Beaches may remain closed, and ferry services could face delays or suspensions if winds become too gusty. Those planning to travel along the coast -- whether for business or end-of-summer leisure -- should keep an eye on transportation alerts and road advisories.
While Hurricane Erin is not expected to make landfall, it serves as a stark reminder of how even offshore storms can pack a punch. The Atlantic hurricane season remains active, and with several weeks to go, residents along the coast should treat each storm seriously.
For live storm tracking, official advisories, and the latest updates on Hurricane Erin, visit The Weather Channel.