Morehead City, North Carolina – Severe thunderstorms and dangerous beach conditions are expected across Eastern North Carolina today, creating threats both inland and along the coast. Strong to severe storms could redevelop this afternoon and evening, while hazardous rip currents are making swimming unsafe near Cape Hatteras and surrounding beaches.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, storms may produce damaging winds, large hail, and torrential rainfall from midday through Sunday evening. The threat zone spans all of Eastern NC, with highest risks in inland counties and beach communities alike. Residents are urged to stay alert for updated warnings, especially after dark when hazards are harder to detect.
Rip current risk is moderate to high from North Topsail Beach to Cape Lookout and down to Frisco. Indian Beach, Emerald Isle, and Ocracoke face life-threatening surf conditions, with strong longshore currents affecting swimmers. Visitors are advised to avoid the water, swim only at guarded beaches, and heed all posted warnings.
Thunderstorm chances and coastal hazards will taper off late Sunday night, but additional advisories may follow if storms redevelop into Monday.
