Hatteras Island, North Carolina, is under mandatory evacuation orders as Hurricane Erin barrels towards the US East Coast, threatening catastrophic winds and coastal flooding.
The National Hurricane Center has issued urgent warnings for residents and tourists to leave the area immediately, with the storm expected to make landfall within the next 48 hours.
Evacuation Underway
Local authorities have activated emergency protocols, setting up shelters inland and coordinating transport for those unable to leave independently. Ferries are operating at full capacity to assist the evacuation.
Projected Impact
Forecasters predict:
- Sustained winds exceeding 100 mph
- Storm surges up to 9 feet
- Widespread power outages
- Major road flooding
Preparations Intensify
Emergency services are on high alert, with National Guard units deployed to assist. Governor Roy Cooper has declared a state of emergency, freeing up resources for disaster response.
"This is a dangerous storm that requires immediate action," Cooper stated at a press briefing. "We urge all coastal residents to heed evacuation orders without delay."
Tourist Disruption
The evacuation has disrupted peak summer tourism, with vacationers forced to cut trips short. Many hotels and rental properties are offering refunds or rescheduling options.
Meteorologists warn that Hurricane Erin could intensify further as it moves over warm Atlantic waters, potentially reaching Category 3 status before landfall.
