As coastal storms loom off the coast of North Carolina, residents and visitors are facing dangerous conditions, including rip currents and coastal flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued several alerts for the region, warning of potential hazards from the developing weather systems.
A Beach Hazards Statement has been issued for East Carteret County beaches north of Cape Lookout, highlighting the risk of dangerous rip currents. These powerful currents can sweep even experienced swimmers away from shore into deeper waters, posing a significant threat to beachgoers.
In addition to the rip current risk, a Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for areas along the lower Neuse River, Pamlico, Core and Back Sounds, and adjacent tidal creeks. The advisory warns of 1 to 2 feet of inundation above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. This could result in shallow flooding of roads, parking lots, parks, lawns, and homes adjacent to the waterfront.
The NWS also issued a Coastal Flood Watch for areas along the beaches, Pamlico Sound, and adjacent tidal creeks, as well as Ocracoke Island. This watch predicts 2 to 4 feet of inundation above ground level in some areas near shorelines and tidal waterways, with an elevated threat of property damage around high tide. The potential for major coastal flooding impacts, including ocean overwash, is a concern, and residents are urged to stay informed about the evolving forecast.
As the coastal storm develops over the weekend, stronger winds and higher water levels are expected in the region. Depending on the exact track and strength of the low-pressure system, Coastal Flood Warning conditions may be met, leading to more severe flooding impacts. The NWS advises residents to monitor the forecast closely for updates on potential hazards.
The combination of rip currents and coastal flooding poses a significant risk to public safety and property in the affected areas. It is crucial for residents and visitors to heed the warnings from the NWS and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this weather event.
#NorthCarolinaWeather #CoastalStorms #RipCurrents #CoastalFlooding #StaySafe
References:
– NWS Newport/Morehead City NC. (n.d.). Beach Hazards Statement. [https://api.weather.gov/alerts/urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.bd0e417cd14e673dcb8d16a34598ed1e6d61e1a8.002.1.cap]
– NWS Newport/Morehead City NC. (n.d.). Coastal Flood Advisory. [https://api.weather.gov/alerts/urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.bd0e417cd14e673dcb8d16a34598ed1e6d61e1a8.004.1.cap]
– NWS Newport/Morehead City NC. (n.d.). Coastal Flood Watch. [https://api.weather.gov/alerts/urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.bd0e417cd14e673dcb8d16a34598ed1e6d61e1a8.005.2.cap]
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