Severe weather expected on Wednesday, including possible coastal flooding
A strengthening low pressure system will bring multiple weather threats to the Outer Banks area on Wednesday and Wednesday night, per a Tuesday afternoon briefing from the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport / Morehead City Office.
Gusty winds and periods of heavy rainfall are expected on Wednesday, with sustained southeast winds of up to 25-30 mph. Heavy rainfall at times could bring minor flooding to low lying and poor drainage areas, making travel hazardous.
Coastal flooding is currently forecast for Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, with up to 1-2 feet of inundation above ground level possible near shorelines and tidal waterways, including areas close to the Pamlico Sound. If travel is required on Wednesday, allow extra time as some roads may be impacted or temporarily closed. The primary coastal flooding threat will occur with Wednesday morning’s high tide at approximately 8:30 a.m.
Strong winds and rough seas across the coastal waters will produce conditions which are dangerous for all mariners. A Coastal Flood Advisory and a Gale Warning is in effect for the Outer Banks from 10:00 a.m. Wednesday until 10 p.m. on Wednesday night. The main severe weather threat will occur Wednesday afternoon through early evening.
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/.
