Rhode Island officials are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution along the state’s coastline as Hurricane Erin passes offshore, creating dangerous surf conditions and life-threatening rip currents through Friday.
Gov. Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management issued the warning Tuesday as the National Weather Service posted a high surf and rip current advisory affecting southern-facing beaches.
The storm will generate powerful waves that break larger and farther onshore than normal, creating hazards for boaters, beachgoers, anglers and onlookers, officials said. Authorities warned people not to stand on rocky coastal areas and to stay away from areas where waves might splash over, noting that seemingly safe viewing spots can become deadly when large waves sweep people into the water.
DEM is closely monitoring conditions at state beaches and will update warning flags throughout the week as conditions change. The agency may implement swimming restrictions as needed and urged beachgoers to stay close to lifeguards, listen to safety announcements and pay attention to beach warning flags.
Boaters should secure their vessels and paddlecraft, officials said. Loose boats can trigger emergency searches that divert resources and endanger first responders.
The dangerous surf and rip current conditions are expected to persist through Friday as Hurricane Erin continues its path offshore of southern New England.
Residents can monitor updates from the National Weather Service Boston office and find beach safety information at www.riparks.ri.gov/beachsafety. DEM provides updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
