A tropical storm watch has been issued for the Delaware coast, the National Weather Service reported.
Hermine has strengthened into a hurricane but is still expected to weaken to a tropical storm shortly after it makes landfall in Florida.
The path of the storm remains uncertain, although models indicate it will affect plans for those getting a last summer trip to the beach.
The weather office made the following assessments.
Hazards:
Rip Currents: High Confidence. A moderate to high risk for the formation of dangerous rip currents will continue through at least Labor Day, and may continue into Tuesday. As is always the case, people at the beach should enter the water only if life guards are present.
Tidal Flooding: High Confidence. Minor tidal flooding is likely beginning with the Saturday evening high tide cycle and continuing through the Sunday night high tide cycle, possibly continuing into Monday. Moderate tidal flooding is possible with the Sunday high tide cycles. Given multiple rounds of tidal flooding, water in the back bays will have a hard time draining between tidal cycles which could lead to prolonged flooding in these locations.
Strong Winds: Moderate confidence. There is a chance of tropical storm force winds (sustained winds of 39 mph or greater) for much of the region. The highest chance is along the Delaware beaches and the southern New Jersey Shore. Even with an off shore track, gusts of 30 to 35 mph are expected along the coast.
Heavy rain: Moderate Confidence. At this point, the highest risk of heavy rain is along the coast and coastal plains. The primary flooding hazard will be street and flash flooding. The recent dry weather will lessen but not eliminate the risk of river and stream flooding.
Timing:
The rip current risk is expected persist through at least Monday (Labor Day). Winds are expected to increase around mid-day Saturday, then continue through the holiday weekend. Rain is expected to begin on Saturday, then continue heavy at times through Sunday.
