Gale-force winds and storm surges: Hurricane Erin grazes the US East Coast

Hurricane Erin continues to swirl over the Atlantic. Although it is fortunately not making landfall, the effects are clearly being felt along the US East Coast. Peak gusts of up to 100 km/h are possible, particularly around North Carolina.

A state of emergency was declared there as a precautionary measure. In North Carolina, parts of the Outer Banks – the offshore islands – had to be evacuated.

Due to the wind blowing towards the coast on the north-western side of the storm, waves several metres high and dangerous currents are expected as far north as New York. Many beaches have been closed to bathers as a precautionary measure.