Cape Hatteras, North Carolina – Mariners off the North Carolina coast are facing dangerous conditions this Sunday as gale-force winds and towering seas hammer offshore waters from Cape Charles Light south to Cape Fear. Winds reached 35 knots early this morning, with wave heights peaking at 14 feet, posing serious risks for boaters and commercial vessels.
According to the National Weather Service Ocean Prediction Center, a Gale Warning remains in effect for the entire offshore stretch, with northeast winds expected to ease slightly to 15–25 knots by this evening. However, seas will stay rough—up to 10 feet overnight—with frequent showers and thunderstorms adding to navigation hazards from Currituck Beach Light to Cape Hatteras. Boaters should avoid unnecessary trips, check all safety gear, and monitor VHF radio for updates.
Travel remains dangerous into Monday, especially for smaller craft. Conditions improve slightly as winds decrease to 10–20 knots, but waves stay elevated and scattered storms may limit visibility. Eastern winds persist through midweek, keeping seas at 4–8 feet and making for challenging conditions all along the Outer Banks and southeast North Carolina offshore waters.
Mariners should expect the Gale Warning to continue through Monday, with additional marine advisories possible as the system lingers. Stay alert for sudden changes, and check latest forecasts before heading out.
Five Day Forecast for Cape Hatteras, NC Offshore Waters:
- Sunday: NE winds 25–35 kt, seas 8–14 ft, showers/t-storms
- Monday: NE 10–20 kt, seas 4–8 ft, scattered showers/t-storms
- Tuesday: E to NE 5–15 kt, seas 3–6 ft, few showers
- Wednesday: E 5–20 kt, seas 3–7 ft, breezy
- Thursday: E to SE 10–20 kt, seas 4–7 ft, steady winds
