Because of the potential for strong wind gusts, elevated tides and heavy rainfall associated with a low-pressure system, Cape Hatteras National Seashore officials advise visitors to exercise caution on roads and beaches from Thursday evening into this weekend.
National Weather Service forecasters in the Newport office said Thursday morning that the low-pressure system will impact eastern North Carolina Thursday and Friday, “bringing the potential for multiple hazards including: strong winds, coastal impacts, heavy rain, and a tornado or two.”
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Forecasters warn that rapid water levels could rise along soundside areas on Ocracoke and Hatteras islands, and that minor to locally moderate coastal flooding could continue through this weekend because to high astronomical tides. For weather-related updates, visit the National Weather Service website.
“Visitors should avoid the beach between the north end of Rodanthe and South Shore Drive, and the north end of Buxton, due to the potential for small-to-large pieces of debris to fall off multiple threatened oceanfront structures during and after the storm conditions,” Park Service officials said Thursday.
Officials also said that motorists should use caution along vulnerable areas of N.C. Highway 12 Thursday evening through at least early Saturday morning because of periods of ocean overwash. Travelers should monitor road conditions at https://drivenc.gov.
The Dare County Sheriff’s Office in a social media post Thursday morning warned that overwash was already happening at the north end of Buxton Village.
Beach driving conditions are not expected to be favorable at off-road vehicle ramps. All Seashore campgrounds are open at this time but campers around low-elevation sites may experience flooding.
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