UPDATE: Minor Impacts Expected from Tropical Depression Three
Tropical Depression Three is expected to slowly strengthen and meander off the North Carolina coast this weekend into Monday before lifting northeast Tuesday. At this time, however, it looks like the system will remain far enough off the coast to limit direct impacts to the Outer Banks.
Due to the persistent wind and swell, visitors and residents should expect to have issues with rough surf and rip currents along the beaches through early next week. Beach erosion and minor ocean wash is also possible, and persistent winds with maximum speeds of 30 mph may elevate water levels.
As of 5 a.m. on Saturday, Tropical Depression Three was located 145 miles south-southeast of Cape Hatteras and was moving north-northwest at 5 mph. Gradual strengthening is forecast during the next few days, and the depression is expected to become a tropical storm by Sunday. An Air Force reconnaissance plane is scheduled to investigate the cyclone later today. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect at this time.
For more info, visit www.weather.gov/mhx for weather forecast information, or the National Weather Service office in Newport / Morehead City’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.
