Hurricane Erin might not make landfall on the U.S. mainland, but millions of residents will feel it.
The center of Erin is forecast to move between the U.S. East Coast and Bermuda today and tomorrow, with high surf and rip currents expected from Massachusetts to the Carolinas.
Some residents in the mid-Atlantic have already evacuated, including along parts of North Carolina's Outer Banks which is under a coastal flooding threat.
Meantime The Cape is getting ready to deal with Erin.
Nantucket is closing all South Shore beaches in anticipation of strong riptides in the area.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is expecting dangerous surf and rip currents along the state's southern-facing beaches as Hurricane Erin passes offshore.
Officials say from now through Friday, powerful waves will break larger and farther onshore, creating hazards for boaters, anglers, and onlookers.
The public should stay off rocky coastal areas and away from areas where waves might splash over.
RIDEM says waves can easily sweep a person into the water from what appears to be a safe viewing area.
Erin will be closest to the Outer Banks Thursday morning.
(Photo: National Weather Service)