Coastal flooding possible again this weekend; High risk of rip currents expected

Minor to moderate coastal flooding is possible again this weekend and early next week, per a Friday morning update from the National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City office.

Strengthening and persistent northeasterly onshore flow will develop this weekend, and will linger into next week. This will occur in tandem with the peak of the current king tide cycle, leading to elevated water levels for portions of the Outer Banks, as well as an increased rip current risk with dangerously large breaking waves.

Ocean overwash is possible from Cape Point in Buxton to the northern Outer Banks, while minor soundside flooding is possible for southern Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island.

The highest water levels are expected with the morning high tide on Sunday at approximately 9:30 a.m. and on Monday at approximately 10:15 a.m. The increased risk of dangerous waves and rip currents will last all weekend throughout the Outer Banks.

A high risk of rip currents is forecast north of Cape Point on Friday, 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.

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