Tropical storm conditions and coastal flooding are expected to appear in areas along the Outer Banks starting late Wednesday.

As of Tuesday morning, a storm surge watch is in effect for oceanside areas along the Outer Banks, along with a tropical storm watch for most of coastal North Carolina, The News & Observer previously reported, with evacuations underway for multiple counties.

Hurricane Erin remains a Category 4 as life-threatening surf and rip currents are likely across the U.S. eastern seaboard this week, the National Hurricane Center announced.