A strong cold front moving through eastern North Carolina late tonight into Friday will bring a period of heavy rain, gusty winds, and hazardous coastal and marine conditions, according to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City. Impacts are expected to be most significant along coastal areas and the Outer Banks, where residents and travelers should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Rainfall totals of one to three inches are forecast overnight into Friday morning, with the heaviest amounts occurring closer to the coast. This rainfall is likely to result in ponding of water on roadways, especially during the early Friday morning commute. Drivers are urged to use caution and allow extra travel time where water collects on low-lying roads.
Strong south to southwest winds will accompany the front, with gusts increasing late tonight and continuing through Friday morning. These winds may be strong enough to cause isolated power outages, particularly along portions of the Outer Banks from Cape Hatteras northward toward Cape Lookout. Inland locations will also experience gusty conditions, though the strongest winds are expected closer to the coast and over the adjacent waters.
Marine conditions will deteriorate significantly tonight and remain hazardous through Friday. Large waves and strong winds will create dangerous seas for mariners, and a risk of waterspouts exists south of Cape Lookout. Beachgoers should also be aware of elevated surf, which may lead to localized beach erosion and ocean overwash along vulnerable stretches of NC Highway 12. The greatest risk for overwash impacts is expected during the Friday morning high tide, roughly between 4 and 9 a.m.
Residents are encouraged to remain weather-aware, secure loose outdoor items, and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm.
