Charleston, SC, September 8, 2025
News Summary
Post-Tropical Cyclone Erin has resulted in hazardous surf conditions along the U.S. East Coast following its transition from a Category 1 hurricane. Although Erin is moving away from the northeastern coast, life-threatening rip currents and anticipatory swimming prohibitions have been put in place. Additionally, Charleston, South Carolina, has experienced significant flash flooding leading to road closures. NOAA forecasts an above-normal hurricane season ahead, raising concerns for further storms impacting the region.
Charleston, SC
Post-Tropical Cyclone Erin has created dangerous surf conditions along the U.S. East Coast after transitioning from a Category 1 hurricane on August 22, 2025. As of this afternoon, the National Hurricane Center indicated that Erin, which had previously been classified as a Category 5 hurricane, now has maximum sustained winds of 90 mph and is moving east-northeast at 33 mph. The cyclone was located approximately 375 miles south-southwest of Halifax, Canada.
Though Erin is moving away from the northeastern U.S. coast, life-threatening rip currents and surf conditions are anticipated at beaches from the mid-Atlantic through New England. As a result, many beaches have implemented swimming prohibitions to ensure public safety. No coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect; however, beachgoers are strongly advised to stay out of the water.
Erin formed on August 11, 2025, west of Cabo Verde, becoming the fifth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season. The storm generated rough surf conditions that have already led to evacuations in parts of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, including Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island. Emergency responses included numerous rescues at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, where tropical storm conditions were particularly severe.
Flooding and Rainfall Impacts
In addition to dangerous surf conditions, Erin’s aftermath has caused widespread flash flooding across various regions in the South and Southeast. Charleston, South Carolina, was particularly affected, with heavy rain leading to road closures and hazardous conditions. Reports indicate that roadways near Charleston International Airport were inundated with floodwaters, resulting in significant travel disruptions.
Areas of Dorchester County, South Carolina, were reported to have received substantial rainfall, with estimates ranging from six to twelve inches in parts of the county. Following these events, the National Weather Service issued a Level 2 flash flood risk for Charleston and areas of southeastern Georgia, including Savannah. In Roanoke, Virginia, a severe flash flood emergency was declared after nearly five inches of rain fell in just three hours, prompting concerns about rapidly rising waters.
Regional Flooding Reports
Coastal flooding has also been reported in Virginia and parts of New York, including Queens and Long Island, due to the storm’s impacts. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation as the region faces ongoing challenges related to flooding and erosion.
Looking Ahead
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted an above-normal hurricane season for 2025, predicting 13 to 18 named storms with between 5 and 9 expected to escalate into hurricanes. As Erin moves away from the coast, the hope is that calmer conditions will follow, allowing affected areas to recover and assess the damage caused by both the storm and subsequent flooding.
FAQ
What is Post-Tropical Cyclone Erin?
Erin is a storm that transitioned from a Category 1 hurricane to a post-tropical cyclone, affecting the U.S. East Coast with dangerous surf conditions and flash flooding.
Where did Erin originate?
Erin formed on August 11, 2025, west of Cabo Verde, and it is the fifth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season.
What concerns are there with Erin’s impact?
The storm has led to flash flooding, dangerous surf, and evacuations in specific areas, particularly in North Carolina and South Carolina.
Is it safe to swim on the East Coast now?
Swimming is not recommended at many East Coast beaches due to life-threatening rip currents and surf conditions as a result of Erin.
What does the future hold for the hurricane season?
NOAA predicts an above-normal hurricane season for 2025, with multiple storms expected in the coming weeks and months.
Key Features of Post-Tropical Cyclone Erin
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Classification | Transitioned from Category 1 hurricane to post-tropical cyclone |
| Maximum Winds | 90 mph |
| Location | Approximately 375 miles south-southwest of Halifax, Canada |
| Flood Risk Level | Level 2 flash flood risk issued for Charleston and southeastern Georgia |
| Date of Formation | August 11, 2025 |
| Expected Impacts | Living-threatening surf, rip currents, and flash flooding |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Count on 2: Hurricane Erin Brings Perilous Waves to Charleston
- Live 5 News: This Day in History Sept 5, 2019 – Dorian Skirts By Charleston
- The State: Hurricane Erin Local Impact and Updates
- CBS News: Hurricane Erin Track and Path
- ABC News 4: Tropical Depression Updates
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Erin
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Erin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Erin
- Google News: Hurricane Erin
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
