Weather
Morehead City, NC Coastal Flood Alert: Oct. 23-29
Morehead City, NC – Coastal flooding concerns are growing across eastern North Carolina beginning Friday, October 23, as persistent northeast winds and unusually high king tides threaten low lying com
By Caleb Mercer · 2026-10-23T21:32:19.961Z
Morehead City, NC – Coastal flooding concerns are growing across eastern North Carolina beginning Friday, October 23, as persistent northeast winds and unusually high king tides threaten low lying communities, coastal roads and vulnerable beaches through next week.
According to the National Weather Service NWS in Newport/Morehead City, coastal flood advisories are in effect along portions of the North Carolina coast, including areas near the Neuse and Bay rivers. Forecasters expect minor to locally moderate flooding as strong northeast winds combine with elevated tidal levels.
Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Face Elevated Risks
Hatteras Island and Ocracoke are expected to experience moderate coastal impacts beginning Saturday, October 24, continuing through Monday, October 26.
The NWS specifically warned that Hatteras Island could experience higher impacts because of vulnerable dune systems. Strong wave action may accelerate beach erosion and increase the potential for ocean overwash in exposed locations.
Communities along the Crystal Coast, northern Outer Banks and soundsides could also experience rising water levels, with moderate impacts expanding into Monday.
King Tides Could Extend Flooding Into Next Week
Although northeast winds are expected to weaken early next week, forecasters warn that king tides will peak between Monday, October 26, and Thursday, October 29.
Water levels approximately 1 to 2 feet above ground level are expected in affected areas, according to the NWS update.
At Duck, notable high tides are forecast around 6:30 a.m. Saturday, 7 a.m. Sunday and 8 a.m. Monday, with additional elevated tides expected through Wednesday.
Residents and visitors should monitor changing conditions, particularly near flood prone roads, waterfront properties and beach access points.
Drivers should avoid flooded roadways, while coastal residents are encouraged to follow updated NWS advisories as conditions evolve.