Newport, NC – The National Weather Service warns of heavy rainfall and coastal flooding this weekend across Eastern North Carolina, with the heaviest impacts expected along the Outer Banks and Down East Carteret County through Sunday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, a Flood Watch remains in effect until 8 a.m. Sunday, with widespread rainfall totals between 3 and 6 inches possible east of Highway 17. Localized flooding and ponding of water are expected, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
Strong northeast winds through Sunday will shift northwest Sunday night, driving soundside flooding along Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. Inundation of 2 to 4 feet above ground level is possible, and some of the highest tides of the season are expected Sunday into Monday morning.
Officials warn that NC12 may become impassable at times due to ocean overwash, especially near Hatteras and Ocracoke. Residents and travelers heading to the coast for the Columbus Day holiday should closely monitor weather updates and avoid driving through flooded roadways.
For the latest forecasts and hazard maps, visit weather.gov/mhx.
