Coastal Rhode Island is under a high surf advisory and flood advisory as Hurricane Erin continues to send big waves to the Ocean State.
“Erin made its closest pass to southern New England this morning and will continue its track to the northeast away from the coasts. Erin’s influence is expected to continue to diminish today,” the National Weather Service said in its forecast discussion.
“Large breaking waves of 10 to 15 feet” will trigger flooding up to one foot deep on “vulnerable coastal roads” and send debris onto roadways, the weather service said. Erosion is also expected, the weather service says.
This graphic from the National Hurricane Center shows the likely track of Hurricane Erin.
The coastal flood advisories coincide with the morning and evening high tides. The first advisory expires at 10 a.m., and the second will run form 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. tonight.
“Minor coastal flooding occurs along the most vulnerable shoreline locales in Newport, Portsmouth and Middletown,” the weather service said. “This includes flooding at parking lots near beaches in Newport, and a portion of Hazard Road. Minor coastal flooding also occurs on several streets in the Common Fence Point area.”
“If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth,” the weather service said.
The high surf advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday.
The Block Island Ferry has canceled morning trips and is assessing whether some ferries can run this afternoon. The ferry service says it will add trips Saturday for travelers affected by the Thursday and Friday cancellations.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI weather: Hurricane Erin continues to send big waves, flood threat