Tropical Storm Warning, Coastal Flood Alerts in effect for Shore

The National Weather Service in Wakefield has placed Accomack and Northampton Counties under a Tropical Storm Warning as Hurricane Erin tracks offshore but brings significant impacts to the region.

North to northeast winds are expected to strengthen Wednesday night into Thursday, with gusts of 40–50 mph likely near the shoreline of both counties. Over coastal waters, gusts may reach 45 knots. Forecasters warn that downed trees and scattered power outages are possible. Another consideration for us here on the Shore is the areas that received heavy rain on Tuesday is trees uprooting in strong winds.

A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect from Thursday into Friday for the Eastern Shore’s Atlantic coastline and areas along the Chesapeake Bay. Widespread moderate flooding is expected, with water levels rising 1 to 3 feet above ground in low-lying areas. Major flooding is possible during the Thursday evening high tide cycle, especially along the lower Chesapeake Bay.

Large swells from Erin are forecast to build seas to 12–17 feet by Thursday morning. The National Weather Service reports a high risk of rip currents through the week and warns of significant beach and dune erosion along the Atlantic coast.

Some outer rainbands may brush the Eastern Shore tonight into Thursday, bringing scattered showers, localized downpours, and brief periods of stronger wind.

Officials caution residents not to focus on Erin’s exact track. Because of the hurricane’s large size, impacts will extend well beyond its center as it moves northward offshore.

The National Weather Service will issue its next update Thursday morning, with a live online briefing scheduled for 11 a.m.

Be prepared for whatever hurricane season brings our way by reading the A&N Electric Hurricane Preparedness Guide or picking up the print version at several area local businesses.