Hurricane Erin, a Category 3 storm, has prompted mandatory evacuations for North Carolina’s Outer Banks despite being expected to remain offshore. The storm, which previously reached Category 5 status, has already caused power outages and coastal flooding in the Caribbean. Forecasters predict dangerous rip currents and high waves of up to 15 feet. While no direct US landfall is anticipated, the hurricane’s large size and powerful winds will continue to pose a significant threat, with high surf and potential road washouts expected to disrupt travel along the US East Coast.