Weather
North Carolina Weather: Coastal Flooding Worsens, Disruptions Through Oct 22
Morehead City, NC — A powerful offshore nor'easter is bringing days of coastal flooding, dangerous surf and strong winds to eastern North Carolina, with the Outer Banks facing the greatest impacts thr
By Elliot Vaughn · 2026-10-19T14:47:41.823Z
Morehead City, NC — A powerful offshore nor'easter is bringing days of coastal flooding, dangerous surf and strong winds to eastern North Carolina, with the Outer Banks facing the greatest impacts through Thursday, Oct. 22.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, a low pressure system off the coast will continue producing hazardous marine conditions, elevated water levels and beach erosion throughout much of the week.
In its Monday, Oct. 19, morning briefing, forecasters warned that coastal water levels during upcoming high tides could exceed those already observed.
Coastal Flooding Could Reach 4 Feet
The greatest flooding concerns are along the Outer Banks, particularly Hatteras and Ocracoke islands.
Ocean facing communities could experience minor to moderate coastal flooding, with water levels reaching 1 to 3 feet above ground level in some locations.
Moderate flooding is possible along portions of the Hatteras and Ocracoke soundside, where water levels could reach 2 to 4 feet above ground level.
Forecasters also expect minor to locally moderate flooding along the southern Pamlico and Neuse rivers and portions of Down East Carteret County.
Strong Winds and Dangerous Waves Continue
Northeast winds could produce gusts of 45 to 50 mph along the coast, peaking Monday and Monday night.
Offshore waves could reach approximately 15 to 20 feet, creating dangerous conditions for vessels and increasing the risk of beach erosion.
Strong surf and ocean overwash have already affected portions of the Outer Banks, including areas near Mirlo Beach, Rodanthe and Pea Island.
Travel Disruptions Possible Through Thursday
The Weather Service warned that ocean overwash could make portions of North Carolina Highway 12 impassable around high tide, particularly near Hatteras and Ocracoke.
Ferry service disruptions are already occurring and could continue into midweek.
Residents should avoid flooded roadways, monitor local transportation updates and prepare for possible power outages.
Officials emphasized that this is a prolonged coastal weather event, with elevated flooding risks continuing through Thursday even as winds gradually weaken.