Newport, NC – Isolated thunderstorms are expected to impact inland North Carolina areas today, with a 15-25% chance of showers, primarily between 3 PM and 7 PM. Temperatures will remain seasonally warm, reaching into the mid-to-upper 80s.
As of early this morning, the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City reported that Tropical Storm Ernesto is moving north of Puerto Rico into the open western Atlantic Ocean. The storm is anticipated to strengthen into a hurricane later today, continuing its trajectory into the weekend. Although Ernesto is forecasted to stay well off the North Carolina coast, residents should prepare for dangerous rip currents and rough surf starting Friday. Additional coastal impacts, including possible heavy rain and strong winds, are expected through the weekend.
The extended forecast shows relatively stable weather conditions following today’s storms. Sunshine is predicted for Wednesday and Thursday, with highs in the mid-80s. However, conditions could shift as Ernesto’s impact approaches, with a chance of rain on Sunday and Monday.
