RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina Governor Josh Stein says Hurricane Erin is poised to make its closest approach to the state around late Wednesday and into Thursday, prompting officials to put preparations in place ahead of the storm's impact.
Full briefing: Gov. Stein warns of Hurricane Erin threat
Officials expect the storm to strengthen over the course of Wednesday as it makes its way north, Gov. Stein shared during a briefing Wednesday morning. He stressed that while all residents need to take caution, those along the coast will likely see the worst of the storm.
"We are anticipating coastal flooding from massive waves, tropical storm force winds and tidal and storm surge for much of the state shoreline, especially the Outer Banks," said Gov. Stein.
Watch: Hurricane Erin may strengthen a little more before getting closer to NC coastline
Gov. Stein says after declaring a state of emergency on Tuesday, officials have been positioning resources in preparation of Erin.
"Our State Emergency Response Team stands ready to quickly and decisively respond to any needs along the coast," Stein said. "We have already pre-positioned three swift water rescue teams and 200 National Guard troops to various locations on the coast, along with boats, high clearance vehicles and aircraft, we have on standby some Chinooks (helicopters) from Georgia ready to transport food and water if it becomes necessary."
Weather
Live blog: Hurricane Erin pulls away, tidal flooding, rough surf remain
News 3's First Warning Weather Team says Hurricane Erin is expected to remain over water. However, it will still bring coastal flooding threats and ocean overwash to our stretch of the east coast — something North Carolina officials want residents to be aware of.
"Numerous roadways will likely become impassable, especially on NC-12 and in communities on the barrier islands. This will be a longer duration event, with coastal flooding expected over several high tide cycles," said William Ray, the state's director of emergency management.
Coastal communities have been preparing for Erin throughout the week, with both Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands carrying out mandatory evacuations.
WTKR News 3 will be providing real-time updates on Hurricane Erin's impacts in the Outer Banks. For the latest, click here.
