Storm could bring coastal flooding, strong winds, and freezing temps starting Thursday

A strong storm system could bring a number of impacts to the Outer Banks starting on Thursday including strong winds, oceanside and soundside flooding, heavy rains, and freezing temperatures, per a Wednesday morning update from the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City office.

Minor to moderate soundside and oceanside flooding is possible, with water levels 1-3 feet above ground level. Minor ocean overwash may affect N.C. Highway 12 and properties that are immediately adjacent to the beach. Flooding is possible from Ocracoke Island to the northern Outer Banks and is most likely on Friday and Saturday.

7-10 ft. waves in the surf zone could result in dangerous surf and beach conditions, as well as marine hazards.

Strong winds with gusts up to 50 mph are currently forecast for Friday, and the Outer Banks could see up to two inches of rain from Thursday into Friday afternoon. A few strong to severe thunderstorms are possible for Eastern N.C., mainly from late Thursday morning through Thursday evening.

On Friday night and Saturday, maximum wind chills in the low teens are expected. With the wind and cold weather, power outages are possible until conditions begin to improve on Sunday and Monday, per an update from Drew Pearson, Director of Dare County Emergency Management.

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/.