Major Hurricane Erin Threatens U.S. East Coast
Today, the most significant weather headline is the ongoing threat from Major Hurricane Erin. The National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center are closely monitoring the storm, which is expected to bring life-threatening impacts to the U.S. East Coast, particularly North Carolina’s Outer Banks.1
A Storm Surge Watch and Tropical Storm Watch are in effect for the North Carolina Outer Banks.2
Coastal flooding and ocean overwash are expected to begin with high tide this evening, August 19, 2025, and are anticipated to last for several days.3
The flooding is likely to make portions of N.C. Highway 12 impassable.4
Dangerous rip currents and large waves are expected along the entire East Coast, from Florida to Atlantic Canada.5
A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for visitors and residents of Hatteras Island, Dare County, North Carolina.6
Sources:
- National Weather Service (NWS): Hurricane Erin Briefing #7
- National Hurricane Center (NHC): NOAA National Hurricane Center
- Dare County, NC: Hurricane Erin Updates
Extreme Heat and Flash Flood Risks in the U.S.
Beyond the tropical threat, other parts of the U.S. are dealing with their own weather challenges.
Dangerous heat and humidity continue across the Mississippi Valley and the Southeast, with heat indices reaching triple digits.7 Heat Advisories are in effect for parts of Florida.8
The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Marginal Risk for Flash Flooding for the Panhandle, North Florida, and Central Florida due to slow-moving thunderstorms with heavy downpours.9
Scattered thunderstorms are also expected in parts of Georgia, with potential for strong winds and localized flooding.10
Sources:
- National Weather Service: Weather.gov
- Florida Disaster: Weather Florida Disaster
Wildfire Updates
Wildfire activity continues in California, with several large incidents being monitored and contained.
The Gifford Fire in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties is at 95% containment.
The Orleans Complex in Del Norte and Siskiyou counties is at 88% containment.11
A new fire, the Carlos Fire, in San Luis Obispo county, is at 0% containment as of yesterday, August 18, 2025.12
Source:
- CAL FIRE: California Fire Incidents
Disclaimer: This information was researched and curated with the assistance of AI, but reviewed and verified by a human.