Wednesday, August 20, 2025 — Morning
Hurricane Erin makes its closest pass to Topsail Island today and while the storm’s core stays far offshore, the ocean will bring her largest impacts. We’re tracking tide timing, wind, and any surge-driven flooding issues that could pop near high tide — especially on the island’s north and south ends where water stacks quickest.
This Morning’s Conditions
As of the early NHC advisory, Erin is a large Category 2 hurricane well offshore and lifting north-to-northeast. Storm Surge and Tropical Storm warnings focus on the Outer Banks — north of Beaufort Inlet — while the Topsail area remains south of those warning breakpoints.
Our local hazards today are high surf, dangerous rip currents, breezy north winds, and minor coastal flooding around peak tides.
Today’s Tides, Water Levels & Beach Flag Conditions
- High tides (New Topsail Inlet reference): ~5:50 AM and ~6:30 PM. Expect water to run higher than normal near these windows. Times vary a few minutes along the shores of our 26-mile island.
- Localized flooding: Brief saltwater flooding overtopping the beach dunes is possible at typical trouble spots — far north near New River Inlet and the final mile at the south end. From past experience, this is more likely as we approach this evening’s high tide, which will carry a 2′ height increase above this morning’s high tide.
- Beach erosion: Spotty dune regions are most prone to erosion where access points are narrow. Give extra room to the dune line and stay off wet, compacted sand as wave sets pulse in.
Today’s Wind & Surf Conditions
- Wind: North to NNE winds generally 10–25 mph with occasional higher gusts in squalls. Not a power-outage setup locally but secure light items on decks/porches.
- Surf: Rough, long-period swell with high rip current risk. Breakers commonly 5–7 ft with larger sets on exposed beaches and near inlets.
- Swimming: Flags are expected to be red (or “No Swimming”), so for your health and safety, skip the ocean. If you’re looking ot capitalize on finding rare shells or shark teeth, the best timing would be shortly after noon when water levels are lowest. That’s not recommended, but we know it will happen, so please exercise extreme caution.
For Visitors & Rentals
- Bring in beach gear; stow umbrellas/chairs and secure trash/recycle cans.
- Plan off-beach hours around high tide. If you must go oceanside, do it near popular areas and never alone.
- Travel: brief squalls may slow US-17 and both bridges, so take it slow and be considerate of others.
For Locals & Small Businesses
- Oceanfront: pull signage and sidewalk displays inboard; check dune walkover gates and ropes.
- Service trades: stage vehicles off low curbs on evening high tide; avoid inlet transits in peak swell.
- Marinas/small craft: double-check lines/fenders in fetch-exposed slips.
Stay Informed
- WECT’s weather team (app & on-air) for Cape Fear specifics and beach safety context.
- NHC advisories/graphics for official track and surge outlooks.
- NWS Wilmington (ILM) for local High Surf/Rip Current/Coastal Flood statements.
While Hurricane Erin stays offshore, today will bring her roughest surf and the greatest rip/overwash risk near high tide. Respect the water, follow posted guidance, and lean on trusted local forecasts.
