Idalia could bring 4-6 inches of rain and ocean overwash later this week; High risk of rip currents for Tuesday

Hurricane Idalia may bring a range of impacts to the Outer Banks area as early as Wednesday night, per an update from the National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City office.

Rainfall and ocean hazards remain the leading threats from Idalia, (which is expected to be downgraded to a tropical storm by Thursday), with 4-6 inches of rain forecast for Wednesday through Friday. Within the heaviest bands of rain, isolated totals of up to 8” of rain are also possible.

As for storm surge, oceanside inundation (1 foot above ground level) of low-lying areas is possible, and tropical storm force winds of 39-57 mph are also forecast, especially south of Oregon Inlet. Tropical storm-force winds could arrive on the Outer Banks as early as Wednesday night, August 30.

The rainfall coupled with the potential for ocean overwash could make travel difficult later this week.

A few isolated tornadoes are also possible for southern Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday, which may produce enhanced areas of damage.

Dangerous rip currents are expected through mid-week, due to distant Hurricane Franklin. A High Surf Advisory and a high risk of rip currents is in effect for Tuesday, August 29. 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. Visitors can also sign up for text alerts from Dare County, ocean rescue agencies, and the National Weather Service by texting “OBXBeachConditions” to 77295.

Remember that the forecast for Hurricane Idalia will continue to be refined, and the public can check for updates on the NWS Newport/Morehead office’s website at weather.gov/mhx/tropical.