Hurricane Erin pounded the North Carolina coast with strong waves and gusty winds as it began to move out to sea Thursday. It was still considered dangerous for beachgoers along the U.S. East Coast.

As Erin’s wind field continues to expand, the storm is fueling widespread, destructive surf conditions and dangerous rip currents along the coast from Florida to New York. The risk for the East Coast will last until the end of the week, prompting many beaches to ban swimming.