Morehead City, N.C. – Swimmers and boaters along the North Carolina coast should brace for hazardous conditions as a moderate rip current risk and the threat of severe thunderstorms persist through Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, rip current risks remain in effect for beaches along Carteret, Onslow, and Hatteras Island through Friday night. Scattered thunderstorms will continue Thursday night, with some storms capable of producing damaging winds, hail, and locally heavy rainfall. The main concern shifts to Friday evening, when a line of strong to severe storms could develop.
In Morehead City, gusts may reach up to 22 mph Friday night, with rainfall amounts between a quarter and half an inch expected during heavier thunderstorms. Newport, Havelock, and Ocracoke could also see short-term localized flooding and temporary power disruptions.
Beachgoers are urged to avoid swimming in unguarded areas and heed all warning flags. Inland residents should secure loose items outdoors and prepare for potential brief outages.
Storm threats are expected to taper off early Saturday morning, but scattered showers could return by Sunday. Additional weather statements may be issued if storm conditions intensify.
