Dangerous surf, rip currents, and the potential for dune erosion from Hurricane Erin are anticipated here, with the most significant impacts expected on Thursday and Friday, East Hampton Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzlez said on Tuesday.
"While the storm itself is forecast to remain several hundred miles from us, we will still feel its effects here, particularly in the ocean," the supervisor said at the town board's meeting.
Preparations were reviewed and a coordinated plan put in motion at a Monday meeting with the Police Department, town lifeguards, emergency management, Marine Patrol, Councilman David Lys, and the Highway, Parks and Building Maintenance, and Recreation Departments.
Surf conditions were raised from green to yellow on Monday afternoon, meaning that rip currents have been observed and it is not safe for inexperienced swimmers, Ms. Burke-Gonzalez said. Forecasts, she said, are showing waves building to 15 to 20 feet. Town employees began moving equipment and lifeguard stands to higher ground on Tuesday, she said.
At the direction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the town's Natural Resources Department is removing piping plover fencing at Atlantic Avenue Beach in Amagansett. "We are taking this step now so that the fencing is not washed away by the incoming surf," the supervisor said. "We are also working to document and protect our shoreline." At the town's request, Suffolk Aviation is conducting an aerial survey of the south shore beaches on Tuesday, while town staff flew drones along our beaches on Monday. "These flights will give us an important record of the condition of our beaches and dunes before the storm," she said, "so that we can respond appropriately afterward if we see erosion or damage."
Offshore seas could build to 12 to 15 feet or more, especially east of Moriches Inlet, according to Suffolk County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services. "Combined with high tides, these ocean conditions may bring dune erosion, localized flooding, and possible overwash Thursday evening into Friday morning," Ms. Burke-Gonzalez said.
She stressed the importance of swimming at lifeguarded beaches and taking direction from lifeguards. "If you see a red flag, only experienced swimmers are allowed in and fins are required." A red flag with a swimmer crossed out is a "No Swimming" flag, she said, and one should stay out of the water. "These warnings are not there to keep you from enjoying the ocean. They are here to keep you safe."
"I want to assure you that the town is prepared," the supervisor said. "We are in close contact with Suffolk County and our emergency service partners, and our lifeguards and staff are working hard to make sure we are ready."
