Hurricane Erin pounds US east coast as residents brace for ‘life-threatening’ waves

North Carolina anticipates the most brutal surf conditions after storm reportedly rebuilds inner eye wall

Hurricane Erin's arrival is being felt all along the east coast, where higher tides and powerful surf have triggered expanded warnings for flooding and tropical storm conditions.

Coastal residents are bracing for the possibility of a dangerous storm surge reaching up to 4ft (1.2 metres), along with severe beach erosion. The hurricane is expected to generate life-threatening" waves ranging from 15 to 20ft, with North Carolina beaches anticipating the most brutal waves.