Coastal flooding, severe weather possible Thursday and Friday
A strong frontal system will impact the Outer Banks from Thursday into Friday, bringing the potential for severe thunderstorms, gusty winds, and possible coastal flooding.
Minor to locally moderate inundation of 1-3 ft. above dry ground is possible along the oceanside and soundside from Thursday into early Friday.
On the oceanside, the threat of flooding is most likely south of Oregon Inlet, including Ocracoke Island, which could impact travel on N.C. Highway 12, as well as Hatteras and Ocracoke ferry services. On the soundside, flooding is most likely from South Nags Head to Avon, including Roanoke Island.
In addition, rough surf, localized beach erosion, and an elevated rip current risk are expected.
King Tides will keep water levels elevated through tonight and may result in minor nuisance coastal flooding, although minor to locally moderate coastal flooding is most likely from Thursday into Friday.
Scattered thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts and a brief tornado will also be possible Thursday afternoon and evening. Southerly wind gusts of 30-40 mph are also forecast starting Thursday afternoon.
Additional updates are expected on Wednesday. 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/.
