Though Hurricane Erin is not forecast to make landfall on the U.S., the storm’s rapid intensification has prompted increased measures in North Carolina.

Though Hurricane Erin will not make landfall in the U.S., here's why a Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for parts of North Carolina.

Mandatory evacuations are underway on Hatteras Island, North Carolina, as Hurricane Erin approaches. Coastal flooding and massive waves could leave roads impassable for days.