Tropical Storm Watch issued for Accomack and Northampton Counties from Hurricane Erin

The National Weather Service in Wakefield has expanded a Tropical Storm Watch to include Accomack and Northampton Counties as Hurricane Erin moves northward off the U.S. East Coast.

As of Tuesday evening, Erin remained a Category 2 hurricane with maximum winds of 105 mph. Forecasters expect the storm to curve north and northeast, staying offshore, but warn that its large size will bring dangerous conditions across the Eastern Shore and Lower Chesapeake Bay beginning Wednesday night.

Local Impacts

• Wind: North to northeast winds are expected to gust between 40 and 45 mph along coastal areas of Accomack and Northampton from Wednesday night into Thursday evening. Over the coastal waters, gusts could reach 45 knots. Inland areas may see winds of 20 to 35 mph

  

• Flooding: Coastal Flood Watches are in effect for both counties from Thursday into Friday. Widespread moderate flooding is expected at high tide, with water levels rising 1 to 3 feet above ground in low-lying areas. Major flooding is possible along the lower Chesapeake Bay.

• Surf and Erosion: Dangerous surf, strong rip currents, and significant beach and dune erosion are forecast for the Atlantic coast and barrier islands beginning Wednesday. Seas of 12 to 16 feet are expected offshore.

• Rain: Outer rainbands could brush the Eastern Shore, bringing periods of heavy rain and localized stronger winds.

Officials urge residents not to focus on the exact track of the storm, as impacts will extend far from Erin’s center. Flooding and wind hazards may continue into Friday depending on the storm’s speed and size.

Crews around the Coast Guard’s East District are preparing for the potential impacts of Hurricane Erin, Tuesday. Aircrews, cutters, boat crews, and command centers across the region are actively staging and preparing to respond to any potential impacts from the storm.

The National Weather Service will provide an updated briefing Wednesday morning and hold a live online update at 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.