Assateague, Ocean City Beaches Closed Amid Hurricane Erin Rip Currents

Hurricane Erin, currently a Category 2 storm off the Atlantic coast, has prompted extensive beach closures and safety restrictions across Ocean City and Assateague Island due to dangerous rip currents and high surf. Ocean City Beach Patrol is enforcing strict limits on water access, allowing only wading up to waist level, while Assateague Island has closed all oceanside beaches and Oversand Vehicle Areas because of flooding, beach erosion, and extreme rip current conditions. Parking lot access at Chincoteague Beach is also partially restricted with potential for full closure as conditions worsen, and officials warn that additional closures may occur as the storm progresses. Despite the storm not expected to make landfall in the U.S., its impact has led to these preemptive measures aiming to ensure public safety. Visitors are advised to stay off the water, heed lifeguard warnings, and monitor updates through National Park Service channels. These restrictions will remain in place until Hurricane Erin moves further offshore and ocean conditions improve.