Hurricane Erin was not predicted to hit North Carolina directly, its effects were expected to be felt across the Crystal Coast and Outer Banks by Monday, Aug. 18.

Officials at the North Carolina coast on Sunday declared a state of emergency in Dare County and ordered an evacuation of Hatteras Island at the Outer Banks, ahead of expected flooding from Hurricane Erin.

Powerful Hurricane Erin continues to strengthen and remains an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane as it continues its journey across the Atlantic, prompting officials in North Carolina to issue local states of emergency and forcing residents and visitors to evacuate some areas.