News Summary
Hurricane Erin, a Category 2 storm, is significantly impacting the First Coast of Florida, with high tides and severe swells posing threats to local wildlife. Sea turtle nests are at risk, with reports indicating potential loss due to the storm’s effects. Jacksonville University officials are monitoring the situation, noting that many existing nests could face wash overs. In North Carolina, efforts to protect turtle nests are underway, but damage has already occurred. Meanwhile, hazardous conditions and heavy rainfall are expected along the Eastern Seaboard as Hurricane Erin progresses.
Jacksonville, Florida – Hurricane Erin is currently affecting the First Coast of Florida, generating high swells and significantly elevating tides along the region’s coastline. This storm is classified as a Category 2 hurricane with winds nearing 100 mph, causing concerns about its impact on local wildlife, particularly sea turtle nests.
As Hurricane Erin progresses, high tides are pushing well above normal levels. Lucas Meers, who oversees the sea turtle program at Jacksonville University, is actively monitoring the situation and assessing the effects of these high tides on local sea turtle nests. Duval County has approximately 80-100 sea turtle nests reported this year, a figure that reflects a down year for nesting. Despite this, many of the existing nests have been subjected to wash overs as a result of the storm’s impacts.
Loss of some nests is anticipated, an outcome that occurs regularly during this time of year. Sea turtle nests are generally resilient and can withstand occasional flooding; however, prolonged inundation can obstruct oxygen exchange, potentially reducing their chances of survival. Fortunately, the current timing in the nesting season may provide some relief, as many sea turtles have already laid their eggs. Meers highlighted the natural strategy adopted by female sea turtles, which involves laying multiple nests each season to improve the odds of successful hatching.
An evaluation of Hurricane Erin’s overall impact on sea turtle nesting will begin once the storm has passed, with assessments likely to continue until the end of October. Beachgoers are advised to report any down stakes or exposed shells to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for appropriate assistance.
In the Outer Banks of North Carolina, efforts are underway to safeguard turtle nests from Hurricane Erin. Landscaping edging has been installed around nests to provide an extra layer of protection. However, reports from Dale Baquer, president of the Emerald Isle Sea Turtle Patrol, indicate that at least three nests have already been washed away by the storm’s forces, with eight out of ten remaining nests suffering significant damage. Despite this, Baquer expresses hope that at least two of the nests may survive the storm’s impact.
The storm’s outer bands are anticipated to worsen conditions along the North Carolina coast, further exacerbating the challenges posed to local wildlife and coastal communities. In addition to the risks to sea turtle nests, the National Weather Service has issued warnings about dangerous rip currents and strongly advises against ocean-related activities. Tropical storm conditions are predicted to affect the Outer Banks soon, with potential flooding from storm surge expected in areas typically dry.
Overall, swells generated by Hurricane Erin are forecasted to reach heights of 20 feet along the East Coast. As the storm moves north-northwest, it is expected to change direction toward the north and northeast in the coming days, with rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches reported from the storm’s outer bands hitting the Outer Banks area.
As Hurricane Erin continues on its path, local communities and wildlife officials remain vigilant, monitoring the evolving conditions and preparing for the aftermath of the storm’s impact on both people and the environment.
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Additional Resources
- First Coast News
- Wikipedia: Sea Turtles
- WJHG
- Google Search: hurricane erin impact on sea turtles
- First Coast News Video
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
- Palm Beach Post
- Google News: Hurricane Erin
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
