The Category 3 storm is expected to create dangerous rip currents and high surf through Friday. Beaches ban swimmingWhat we know:Several beaches in the Northeast have closed to swimmers for the week as Hurricane Eric begins to travel closer to the U.S. Related articleIn Delaware, Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach have issued swimming prohibitions, while Fenwick Island has restricted beach access. Rip current riskLocal perspective:A high rip current risk is in effect for the Jersey Shore through Wednesday evening, according to the National Weather Service. High surf advisoryDig deeper:The NWS has issued a high surf advisory for all Atlantic Ocean beaches for Wednesday and Thursday with a possible extension further into the week.