Morehead City, N.C. – Strong surf and dangerous rip currents are expected to batter North Carolina’s coast through Thursday evening, with the National Weather Service warning of coastal flooding and hazardous swimming conditions from the Crystal Coast to the Outer Banks.
According to the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City, a High Surf Advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday, with waves building 6 to 10 feet. A Beach Hazards Statement also remains in place, cautioning swimmers about life-threatening rip currents. Meanwhile, a Coastal Flood Advisory warns of minor overwash and flooding during high tide cycles, particularly near inlets and low-lying roads.
Impacts will be felt across Carteret, Onslow, Dare, and Hyde counties, where beach erosion and localized flooding are possible during high tides. Drivers should avoid saltwater-covered roads, and coastal residents are urged to secure belongings near the shoreline.
Lifeguards along Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle report elevated risks for swimmers, with emergency crews advising the public to stay out of the surf until conditions improve.
Hazardous conditions are expected to persist through at least Thursday night, with additional advisories possible if surf heights remain elevated.
Five Day Forecast for Newport, NC
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 87. Chance of afternoon thunderstorms, 30%.
- Wednesday: Showers likely, high near 86. Winds NE 15–20 mph, gusts to 31 mph.
- Thursday: Chance of showers, breezy, high near 86. Low around 68.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 83. Low around 68.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 83. Low around 71.
