Hurricane Erin has weakened from a Category 5 to Category 3 but remains a major threat, forecasters warn. With sustained winds of 125 mph, the storm is expanding in size and expected to bring dangerous surf, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding across the Caribbean and the U.S. East Coast this week.

Puerto Rico could see up to four more inches of rain, while the Turks and Caicos and the Eastern Bahamas may get up to six, raising risks of flash floods and landslides. Tropical Storm Warnings are in effect for these areas, and swells are already impacting the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, and the Bahamas, with hazardous rip currents expected to reach the U.S. and Atlantic Canada.

While Erin is not forecast to make U.S. landfall, its growing wind field will bring coastal impacts from Florida to New England. Experts highlight risks for North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Long Island, and Cape Cod if the storm shifts westward. The Tri-State area could also experience rough surf and showers midweek.

In response, Dare County and Hyde County in North Carolina declared states of emergency and ordered mandatory evacuations for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, citing threats of 15–20 foot waves, dune destruction, and impassable highways. Officials stressed that even offshore, Erin will remain “large and dangerous,” with life-threatening conditions.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Chantal, which struck earlier in July, served as a reminder of how fast conditions can worsen along the coast, underscoring the importance of preparedness. Authorities urge residents to follow evacuation orders, have a disaster kit ready, and stay updated through official channels.