'No Swimming' Order Issued At East Hampton Town Beaches

EAST HAMPTON, NY — As Hurricane Erin continues to bring dangerous rip currents and erosion threats to South Fork beaches, East Hampton Town is amping up efforts to keep residents safe.

On Wednesday, a "no swimming" order was issued at all East Hampton Town beaches.

"Due to the dangerous surf conditions and strong rip currents from Hurricane Erin, swimming is prohibited at all town ocean beaches until further notice," the notice read.

In addition, town officials said, each lifeguard stand will be flying a "No Swimming" flag. Lifeguards are advising beach patrons of the hazardous conditions.

Meanwhile, bay beaches currently remain open at Big Albert’s Landing Beach, Gin Beach, and Maidstone Bay Beach.

The town is also positioning sand at Ditch Plains Beach parking lots 1 and 2. Working with the highway department, sand is being placed and shaped by a town pay loader to provide protection in advance of the storm, officials said.

"This action is being taken to ensure the safety of all beach patrons and to safeguard vulnerable areas along the shoreline," officials said.

East Hampton Town officials also outlined a series of Hurricane Erin-related safety protocols on Tuesday.