Confidence increasing that low pressure system could affect the Outer Banks Sunday and Monday

Confidence is increasing that a strong low pressure system will affect the Outer Banks this weekend into early next week, per an update from the National Weather Service.

Strong winds and the potential for moderate to major coastal flooding are the primary concerns, with very dangerous marine conditions expected, as well as the potential for flooding from localized rainfall.

Both oceanside and soundside coastal flooding is possible along the Outer Banks, with the highest risk of soundside flooding along the Pamlico Sound forecast for Sunday night until Monday morning. With offshore wave heights of 15-20 feet forecast, ocean overwash is also a concern through early next week.

Large surf is expected for the beaches from Duck to Cape Lookout, particularly late Sunday through Monday, leading to potential beach erosion and overwash along N.C. Highway 12 in vulnerable areas.

Heavy rains of 2-4 inches could also lead to additional localized flooding in areas with poor drainage. The heaviest rains are expected late Sunday night.

Strong winds with gusts up to 60 mph are forecast from Sunday through Monday, and dangerous marine conditions will exist across all eastern North Carolina waterways. A Gale Watch and Storm Watch have been issued for Sunday and Monday.

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/.