Coastal flooding, ocean overwash possible on Tuesday and Wednesday

Confidence is increasing that multiple days of strong northeast-to-east winds combined with large waves may produce coastal flooding and ocean overwash along the Outer Banks next week, per an update from the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City office.

Minor to moderate coastal flooding is possible along the oceanside from Ocracoke to the northern Outer Banks, and significant beach erosion is likely. Portions of N.C. Highway 12 may be impacted by ocean overwash over multiple days, and through multiple high tide cycles.

The most likely timeframe for flooding is Tuesday and Wednesday, November 8-9.

A Gale Watch is in effect for the Pamlico Sound starting late Monday night, due to northeast winds of 20 to 30 knots with gusts up to 40 knots, and very rough waters possible. Mariners should consider altering plans to avoid possible hazardous conditions.

For more information on the local forecast, visit www.weather.gov/mhx for weather information, or the National Weather Service office in Newport / Morehead City’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.