Morehead City, NC – Boaters and mariners along the North Carolina coast should prepare for hazardous conditions as dense fog and strong winds impact the region through Monday. The National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City has issued multiple advisories affecting the Pamlico Sound, Albemarle Sound, and coastal waters from Cape Lookout to Surf City.
According to the National Weather Service, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until noon Saturday, with visibility reduced to less than one nautical mile, making navigation difficult. Mariners are urged to use fog signals, ensure all running lights are on, and rely on radar and compass navigation.
A Gale Warning will take effect from 7 a.m. Sunday through 6 a.m. Monday for waters south of Cape Lookout to Surf City and Oregon Inlet to Cape Hatteras. Winds are expected to reach 20-30 knots, with gusts up to 35 knots and seas between 7 and 12 feet, posing significant hazards to vessels.
Additionally, a Small Craft Advisory will be in effect from Sunday morning to early Monday for Pamlico and Neuse Rivers, Pamlico Sound, and the waters from Duck to Oregon Inlet, with winds of 15-25 knots and rough conditions.
Mariners, especially those in smaller vessels, are advised to avoid travel during these hazardous conditions. Those who must navigate should take extreme caution and consider delaying departures until conditions improve.
