Hurricane Erin was weaker but a formidable-looking storm on Wednesday as it began to make its closest approach to the United States.

Hurricane Erin, a dangerous Category 4 storm and the first of the Atlantic season, has impacted tourists' plans and prompted evacuations on North Carolina's Outer Banks but is likely to stay offshore.

Significant coastal impacts including dune erosion and damages to precarious beach homes are expected on Wednesday night into Thursday for eastern North Carolina, as Erin moves in offshore, especiall...