Hurricane Erin, a massive Category 5 storm nearly 600 miles wide, has brought strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous waves from North Carolina to New York. States of emergency were declared in North Carolina and New Jersey, while New York ordered all beaches closed until Thursday night.
Waves up to 15 feet are expected on Long Island, with flooding risks in Brooklyn and Queens. Authorities warned of life-threatening rip currents and urged residents to remain cautious as the storm moves northward out to sea by Friday.