Newport, N.C. – North Carolina is waking up to another hot and humid summer day, but beachgoers and inland communities alike should prepare for changing conditions as the afternoon unfolds. The air already feels tropical, and thunderstorms are expected to develop later today. Along the Crystal Coast, a moderate rip current risk is adding another hazard for anyone heading to the surf.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, showers and thunderstorms become likely between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Monday, with a 60% chance of rain. Afternoon temperatures climb to 89 degrees, while the heat index could reach 103 degrees before storms develop. Southwest winds between 6 and 11 mph, with gusts up to 18 mph, will accompany the building heat and humidity.
A Hazardous Weather Outlook remains in effect for eastern North Carolina. The National Weather Service also warns of a moderate rip current risk from 8 a.m. through Monday evening along area beaches. Dangerous heat is expected to linger into the middle of the week, while multiple days of afternoon and evening thunderstorms could produce damaging wind gusts, localized flooding and frequent lightning. Forecasters note a stronger cold front may increase heavy rainfall potential by late Wednesday into Thursday.
Travelers along U.S. Highway 70, N.C. Highway 24 and coastal routes through Carteret County should be prepared for rapidly changing weather this afternoon. Heavy downpours may reduce visibility and create ponding on roadways, especially during the evening commute. If you’re heading to Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle or nearby beaches, swim near lifeguards and avoid entering the water if rip currents are present.
Tuesday stays hot with a high near 90 degrees and another chance of scattered thunderstorms. Wednesday brings similar temperatures with additional afternoon storm chances before the wettest period arrives Wednesday night into Thursday. Some storms late Wednesday and Thursday could produce heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of localized flooding in low-lying areas.
The longer-range outlook continues to favor above-normal temperatures into late next week, keeping eastern North Carolina in a classic midsummer pattern of heat, humidity and daily storm opportunities.
Five-Day Forecast for Newport, North Carolina
- Monday: Mostly cloudy with showers and thunderstorms likely after 3 p.m. High 89°F. Heat index up to 103°F. Chance of rain 60%.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny with scattered showers and thunderstorms. High 90°F. Low 82°F. Chance of rain 40%.
- Wednesday: Chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 90°F. Chance of rain 40%. Storms become more numerous Wednesday night with 70% rain chances.
- Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms likely with periods of heavy rain. High 86°F. Chance of rain 80%.
- Friday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. High 85°F. Chance of rain 70%.
