Morehead City, North Carolina – Elevated winds and seas are building across eastern North Carolina waters this week, with impacts peaking Wednesday.
According to the US National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, hazardous marine conditions are expected across coastal waters from Duck to Surf City through Friday. The greatest impacts are forecast Wednesday, when gale-force winds are possible along the coastal waters from Cape Hatteras to Cape Lookout.
Forecasters indicate a 10–20% chance of gale-force gusts Wednesday. Seas are expected to build throughout the week, creating hazardous conditions for small craft and commercial vessels operating offshore.
The Marine Hazards Outlook shows minor to moderate impacts developing Wednesday for coastal waters from Hatteras to Surf City, while Pamlico Sound may see minor impacts. Inland rivers and sounds are not currently expected to experience significant impacts.
Beach communities including Hatteras, Nags Head, Morehead City, and Beaufort could see rough surf and elevated rip current risks. Travel along NC-12 on the Outer Banks and US-158 near Nags Head may be affected by crosswinds, particularly on exposed bridges and causeways.
According to the National Weather Service, winds and seas will remain elevated much of the week, even after peak conditions subside late Wednesday into Thursday.
Charter operators, ferry services, and commercial fishing crews are urged to monitor updated marine forecasts. Boaters are advised to check safety equipment and consider delaying offshore trips during peak wind periods.
The midweek timing may also affect students and workers commuting across coastal bridges during stronger wind gusts.
Additional updates are expected as conditions evolve.
