Strong winds will continue Friday; Coastal flooding still possible

While the threat of severe storms and heavy rains is over, the threat for strong winds will continue throughout Friday, per a recent update from the National Weather Service Newport / Morehead City office.

Winds will dramatically increase after sunrise, peaking between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with maximum wind gusts up to 48 mph. The strong southwest winds will make soundside flooding possible, especially north of Buxton, and may make travel difficult across bridges, and for high profile vehicles.

Water levels were reportedly rising along the Pamlico Sound in adjacent creeks and canals in Avon and the Tri-villages as of 9:00 a.m.

N.C. Highway 12 was reportedly clear and passable from Frisco to Oregon Inlet as of 9 a.m., however, standing water and sand was reported on the highway in northern Hatteras village. Blowing sand may also start to accumulate on the highway throughout the day. Motorists should stay alert and proceed with caution.

For information about current road conditions from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), visit  DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.

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/.

The Island Free Press will continue to post updates as soon as they become available.