(CNN) — That last little bit of summer vacation is likely to be less relaxing than anticipated for travelers spending Labor Day weekend along the United States’ Southeast coast.
But while the Sunshine State may not receive a direct hit, dangerous storm conditions are still anticipated in Florida in the coming days. Meanwhile, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina are now on high alert for possible landfall later in the week.
Hurricane Dorian’s shifting path means the holiday weekend forecast looks better than anticipated in some places, but there will still be dangers for beachgoers.
“High surf and very dangerous rip currents are expected all along the East Coast from Florida up through the Carolinas through the weekend,” said CNN Senior Meteorologist Dave Hennen.
Cumberland Island National Seashore, located on the largest barrier island off the coast of Georgia, closed to the public on Saturday. Fort Frederica National Monument, located on nearby St. Simons Island, also closed on Saturday, according to a National Park Service press release.
Both parks will remain closed until after the storm passes and the areas are deemed safe.
Hilton Head Island open for business
The island, located about 35 miles from Savannah, Georgia, is hosting about 30,000 visitors for Labor Day weekend, with hotel occupancy near 90%, Riley estimated. Holiday weekend visitors are unlikely to see much impact from the hurricane.
“At this point, we’re too early to be suggesting that people bug out. If you’re just here for the holiday weekend, the holiday weekend’s going to be fine,” Riley said.
Flights and trains
Airlines have been issuing waivers for several days to travelers headed for destinations in the storm’s projected path.
More destinations in Georgia and the Carolinas are likely to be added to airline advisories as the storm progresses northward.
Orlando International Airport will cease operations at 2 a.m. Monday local time, according to an official statement from the airport.
Cruises
The storm has prompted cruise lines to modify some of their itineraries — shortening or lengthening cruises and rerouting to different ports of call.