Severe thunderstorms possible Tuesday evening; High rip current risk continues for the Outer Banks

A strong cold front will slowly move through the Outer Banks area on Tuesday afternoon and into tonight, bringing the possibility of strong to severe thunderstorms as well as isolated flash flooding, per a recent update from the National Weather Service Newport / Morehead City office.

Rip currents also remain a threat for beachgoers on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, with a moderate risk forecasted for beaches north of Cape Hatteras, and a high risk of rip currents forecasted for southern Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island. A high risk of rip currents means that the surf zone is dangerous for all levels of swimmers, and beachgoers should stay out of the water.

Much cooler weather is expected starting Wednesday after the front passes, but dangerous surf conditions and high winds are expected to continue through Thursday.

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