Strong winds, beach erosion, and minor coastal flooding possible with Thursday night storm

A series of strong thunderstorms forecasted for Thursday night could bring strong winds, beach erosion and rough surf, and possible soundside flooding for the Outer Banks, per a Thursday morning update from the National Weather Service Newport / Morehead City Office.

Strong southerly winds with gusts up to 45 mph could lead to minor wind damage and power outages along the coast. Isolated tornadoes are possible, as well as heavy downpours with localized flooding. A Wind Advisory has been issued from Cape Lookout to Oregon Inlet, and a Gale Warning has been issued for all area coastal waters, including the Pamlico Sound.

Minor soundside flooding is possible throughout the Outer Banks, with the highest water levels forecast from north Buxton to Roanoke Island. Dangerous surf and beach erosion are also possible for Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, with offshore wave heights of 12-15 feet.

The severe weather is expected to taper off by Friday, however, another storm system is possible for the Outer Banks and Eastern North Carolina area later this weekend.

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/.