Aug. 18 (UPI) -- The Outer Banks in North Carolina are under evacuation warning as Hurricane Erin whips up high waves and flooding along the east coast.

Forecasters expect waves of up to 20 feet Wednesday and Thursday. Dare and Hyde counties ordered tourists and residents to leave Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, which are prone to flooding, the Raleigh News & Observer reported.

For those who choose to ride the storm out, Hyde County on Sunday said, "It is extremely likely that Hyde County EMS services will not be available in Ocracoke due to Highway 12 being inaccessible. Please take this warning seriously, especially if you have medical issues or are likely to need special care."

Now is the peak tourist season in the area.

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