Threat of ocean overwash, coastal flooding increasing for this weekend

A strong coastal low pressure system is expected to impact Eastern North Carolina this weekend, and the threat of ocean overwash and coastal flooding is on the rise, per a recent update from the National Weather Service.

While it’s too still early to determine specific impacts, (which are very dependent on the track and strength of the low pressure system), a prolonged period of strong N/NE winds will combine with high astronomical tides and dangerous seas to produce several hazards along the Outer Banks throughout the weekend.

Rough surf and minor beach erosion are expected, with ocean overwash possible on portions of N.C. Highway 12. Impacts are expected to peak on Sunday,  and residents and visitors travelling on N.C. 12 should monitor forecasts closely for the next several days.

For more information on the local forecast, visit www.weather.gov/mhx for general weather information, or the National Weather Service office in Newport / Morehead City’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.