Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NYC Beaches Close as Hurricane Erin Approaches

8/20/2025

50 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

New York City beaches will close for swimming on Wednesday and Thursday due to Hurricane Erin, which poses dangerous rip currents and waves up to 13 feet.
Mayor Adams and Parks Department officials urge residents to avoid entering the ocean for safety.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy warns of life-threatening conditions along the shore.
Hurricane Erin, a Category 2 storm, is moving northward, generating large swells and tropical-force winds.

History

Historical Context

Hurricane Andrew struck Florida in 1992, causing $26.5 billion in damages and prompting major improvements in hurricane preparedness by FEMA and the National Hurricane Center. The 1995 Hurricane Erin, which followed, marked the first hurricane to hit the contiguous U.S. since Andrew, highlighting the ongoing need for effective public safety measures against severe storms.

1 of 2

Story summary

New York City beaches will close for swimming on Wednesday and Thursday due to Hurricane Erin, which poses dangerous rip currents and waves up to 13 feet.
Mayor Adams and Parks Department officials urge residents to avoid entering the ocean for safety.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy warns of life-threatening conditions along the shore.
Hurricane Erin, a Category 2 storm, is moving northward, generating large swells and tropical-force winds.

1 / 2