North Carolina expects coastal flooding from massive waves, tropical-storm-force winds and tidal and storm surges for much of the state shoreline, especially the Outer Banks, as well as life-threatening rip currents for most of the week, Stein said, adding, "No one should be in the ocean."

On Wednesday at 4:57 a.m. the NWS Newport/Morehead City NC issued an updated tropical storm warning in effect until 1 p.m. for Northern Outer Banks.

Hurricane Erin has prompted mandatory evacuations in the Outer Banks. Avon, Kill Devil Hills, Hatteras Island, Ocracoke Island and Rodanthe are under mandatory evacuations along with Dare and Hyde counties.