Snow unlikely, but strong winds, rough seas and possible flooding still forecast with approaching storm

A winter storm forecast for Thursday night through Friday will bring high winds, rough seas, and possible coastal flooding for the southern Outer Banks, per a Wednesday evening update from the National Weather Service Newport / Morehead City office.

Though the Outer Banks is unlikely to see snow accumulation, mainland Eastern N.C. could see up to 6 inches of snow in Plymouth, Columbia, and Greenville.

Forecasted snowfall for the Outer Banks is less than an inch, however, the coastline will see temperatures in the high 30s and low 40s on Thursday night and Friday. Hazardous travel due to slushy spots on secondary roads, bridges, and overpasses is possible throughout North Carolina from Thursday night through Friday morning.

The primary concern for Hatteras and Ocracoke islands is a risk of elevated water levels and the potential for coastal flooding, particularly in low lying areas near the southern end of the Pamlico Sound.

Rough seas and strong NNE winds are also forecast for the Outer Banks, with wind gusts up to 47 mph currently forecast.

A small craft advisory is in effect from 5 a.m. on Wednesday until 10 p.m. on Friday.

The storm is expected to have its greatest impacts on Thursday night and Friday, and the Island Free Press will continue to post updates as soon as they are available.

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//