Morehead City, North Carolina – Residents along North Carolina’s Outer Banks should prepare for significant coastal flooding through Saturday morning as a storm surge warning remains in effect from East Carteret to the Northern Outer Banks, including Ocracoke, Hatteras Island, and the towns of Beaufort, Nags Head, and Rodanthe. Surge levels could reach 2 to 4 feet in vulnerable areas, posing serious risks to low-lying roads, marinas, and homes near the shoreline.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, while tropical-storm-force winds are not sustained, gusts could reach 50 mph along Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. Wind threats are considered limited but still enough to bring down tree limbs, knock out power, and make bridges and elevated roads hazardous. Emergency officials urge residents to finalize any preparations tonight and avoid travel near coastal areas.
Flooding from heavy rain is no longer expected, and tornado risk remains minimal. However, wave-driven surge and beach erosion are likely to worsen into Saturday. Evacuation orders should be followed immediately where issued, and anyone remaining in flood-prone zones is urged to stay sheltered and avoid coastal roads.
Warnings remain active through Saturday morning, and additional advisories may be issued if the storm’s track shifts.
