Coastal Flood Advisory, High Surf Advisory issued for Wednesday

A Coastal Flood Advisory and High Surf Advisory have been issued for the Outer Banks area until 9 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27, per an update from the National Weather Service.

Large breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet are expected in the surf zone, and up to 1 to 2 feet of inundation above ground level is possible due to ocean overwash, resulting in a minor threat of property damage. Some roads and low-lying properties, including parking lots, parks, lawns, and homes adjacent to the waterfront, may experience shallow flooding.

Elevated water levels are likely with Wednesday evening’s high tide at approximately 6:30 p.m., particularly from Buxton to the northern Outer Banks. (No overwash was reported with Wednesday morning’s high tide.)

A high risk of rip currents is also forecast for beaches north of Cape Point on Wednesday, while a moderate risk of rip currents is forecast for southern Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. A high risk of rip currents means dangerous and potentially life-threatening conditions exist, and beachgoers should stay out of the ocean.

The public should check surf and swimming conditions before heading to the beach, and the daily beach forecast at www.weather.gov/beach/mhx includes rip current risk levels, and information about other hazards along the shoreline. In addition, the public can visit Dare County’s Love The Beach, Respect The Ocean website for current rip current risks and additional info.

Visitors are also encouraged to sign up for text alerts from Dare County, ocean rescue agencies, and the National Weather Service by texting “OBXBeachConditions” to 77295.