From our news services
The National Weather Service has issued a severe weather warning with the first round of thunderstorms possible beginning early this afternoon (May 6), then another round later this evening and overnight.
Beyond Friday, a prolonged period of coastal flooding is expected Sunday through Wednesday as a low pressure will remain nearly stationary off the coast Sunday through Wednesday, the NWS said in a press release.
During that time multiple days of strong north to northeast winds will combine with offshore waves of 10 to 15 feet. This will produce severe beach erosion, minor to moderate coastal flooding, ocean over wash, dangerous surf conditions with high threats for rip currents.
The highest threat will be oceanside from Cape Hatteras north. This will occur over multiple high tide cycles. Elsewhere elevated water levels are expected for multiple days across sound side Hatteras and Ocracoke Island, Downeast Carteret, and the lower Neuse River.
The latest forecast said that winds are trending a bit stronger than a previous forecast, increasing confidence that the Outer Banks will experience impacts from ocean overwash and coastal flooding.