Coastal Flood Warning issued ahead of Christmas storm; Ocean overwash expected

A Coastal Flood Warning, Storm Warning, High Wind Warning, and High Surf Advisory have been issued ahead of a coastal storm that is expected to impact the Outer Banks on Christmas Eve through Christmas Day, per a Wednesday evening update from the National Weather Service Newport / Morehead City Office.

Moderate to significant ocean overwash is now expected, especially during high tide, from Oregon Inlet to Ocracoke Island starting on Christmas Eve. N.C. Highway 12 will likely be impassable at times, and beach erosion is also likely with 8 to 12 ft. waves.

Soundside flooding is also a threat, and especially in between Nags Head and Cape Hatteras.

South winds of 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 55 mph are expected, and damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Severe thunderstorms are forecast, and isolated tornadoes are also possible, resulting in areas of enhanced damage.

A Gale Warning is also in effect from 10:00 a.m. on Thursday until 1:00 p.m. on Friday, with max offshore wave heights of 12 to 22 feet. Mariners should alter plans to avoid hazardous conditions. Remain in port, seek safe harbor, alter course, and/or secure any vessels as needed.

If travel is required on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, allow extra time as some roads may be impacted, including N.C. Highway 12. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth, and take necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. Current driving conditions can be monitored online via the NCDOT website https://drivenc.gov/.

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/.