Morehead City, North Carolina – Residents across eastern North Carolina will notice a break from the recent heat today, but the cooler air comes with a chance for scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms, especially near the coast.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, a cold front is slowly moving through eastern North Carolina, bringing slightly lower humidity and temperatures compared to recent days. High temperatures are expected to range from the low 80s along the Outer Banks to the lower 90s inland, creating a noticeable difference between coastal and inland communities.
Cities including Greenville, Kinston, Jacksonville, New Bern and Wallace are expected to reach around 91 to 92 degrees, while coastal locations such as Hatteras, Ocracoke, Rodanthe and Frisco remain in the lower 80s. Morehead City is forecast to top out near 87 degrees, while Beaufort and surrounding Crystal Coast communities remain in the mid-80s.
The best chance for showers and thunderstorms will develop this afternoon and evening, primarily east of Highway 17, including the Outer Banks, Crystal Coast and coastal sections of Carteret, Dare, Hyde and Onslow counties. Brief heavy rain, lightning and gusty winds may accompany stronger storms.
Beachgoers and boaters should keep a close eye on changing weather conditions and move indoors immediately if thunder is heard.
The front will continue pushing through the region tonight, helping maintain the slightly less humid conditions. Additional updates may be issued if thunderstorms become stronger than currently anticipated.
