Hurricane Erin Causes Coastal Flooding, Rip Currents Across Mid-Atlantic, Northeast

Hurricane Erin, although remaining offshore, is causing significant impacts along the U.S. East Coast, including Long Island, the Jersey Shore, and parts of Maryland. Long Island beaches have closed due to dangerous rip currents and high surf, with some coastal flooding reported, and towns like East Hampton are taking protective measures such as adding sand to dunes to combat beach erosion. The storm's influence is also felt economically, as businesses reliant on beachgoers and boaters report a slowdown. Along the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City officials are concerned about beach erosion, and swimming has been prohibited in areas like Ocean City, Maryland, due to hazardous conditions. Maryland is preparing for tidal flooding that could inundate roads and cause coastal erosion, with emergency services readying equipment and emphasizing safety precautions to residents. Forecasters warn of potential coastal flooding of up to two feet above normal tides in the Mid-Atlantic region, stressing the dangers of driving through flooded areas and staying alert to hazards such as downed power lines and fallen trees.