Outer Banks Braces for Coastal Flooding, High Surf, and Gale Warning Starting Thursday Evening

Coastal Flood Advisory, High Surf Advisory, Gale Warning in Effect Starting Thursday Evening

OUTER BANKS, NC – A potent frontal system is poised to hit the Outer Banks from Thursday evening into Friday, heralding potential severe thunderstorms, gusty winds, and possible coastal flooding. The Outer Banks is under a Coastal Flood Advisory starting from 5:00 p.m. Thursday until 5:00 p.m. Friday. A High Surf Advisory is also in effect from 8:00 p.m. Thursday to 8:00 p.m. Friday. Furthermore, a Gale Warning will come into play from 6:00 p.m. for all coastal waters.

Flood Advisory and High Surf Advisory

The Flood and High Surf Advisories are issued in anticipation of minor to locally moderate inundation of 1-2 ft. above dry ground along the oceanside and soundside. The threat of this deluge is most probable from Thursday evening through Friday. Highlights of the forecast indicate the likelihood of flooding mainly south of Oregon Inlet, incorporating Ocracoke Island on the oceanside. This could disrupt travel on N.C. Highway 12, and affect the Hatteras and Ocracoke ferry services.

The soundside areas between Duck to Avon, including Roanoke Island, are also under the spotlight for possible flooding. Residents and visitors of these areas are urged to brace for rough surf, localized beach erosion, and an elevated rip current risk.

Thunderstorms and Gale Warning Notice

Scattered thunderstorms capable of triggering damaging wind gusts and a brief tornado also loom large Thursday afternoon and evening. Southerly wind gusts of 40-45 mph are forecasted to kick in from Thursday afternoon.

Precautionary Measures

Residents and visitors are encouraged to keep updated on the local weather by visiting the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City’s Facebook page for timely weather updates and advisories.

Those who frequently use ferry services can sign up for text and/or email alerts through the N.C. Ferry System’s FINS system to keep informed about any schedule changes issued directly from the terminal. Users have the option to unsubscribe at any time.

For real-time information regarding road conditions, individuals are advised to visit DriveNC.gov and follow the North Carolina Department of Transportation and NCDOT NC 12 on Facebook. The Dare County Sheriff’s Office also shares local road condition updates on its Facebook page.

Conclusion

Residents, tourists, and businesses in the Outer Banks area are urged to stay informed and vigilant from Thursday evening into Friday as the region gears up for challenging weather conditions. With wisdom and caution, residents and officials are hopeful the adverse conditions can be navigated safely.