Early Wednesday morning, the Hurricane Watch was extended to include much of Virginia's Atlantic coastline, all the way up the Eastern Shore to Parramore Island. 
The reason why these watches are in effect is because of Earl's expected close proximity to the coast late Thursday and Friday. Tropical storm to hurricane force winds are possible in the Watch area. In addition, coastal flooding and erosion is likely, plus dangerous surf.
High pressure in the Atlantic should cause Earl to begin its northerly curve late tonight into Thursday as the steering winds around the high move clockwise. 
The northeast curve Friday will also be influenced by an approaching upper trough from the west, helping to kick Earl parallel to the New England coastline. Still, Earl's track along New England could lead to significant impacts of the likes of a nasty nor'easter from Long Island to Cape Cod.
As of Wednesday Morning, Earl is a major hurricane at Category 3 strength with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph. Hurricane force winds (74mph+) extend out from the center 90 miles, with tropical storm force winds (39mph-73mph) extending out 200 miles from the center.
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