Update, March 16 7 am: We have expanded the wind advisory further west for gusty south winds of up to 45-50 mph this afternoon to early evening.
Key Messages
Enhanced (Level 3 of 5) risk of severe thunderstorms, with the risk increasing to Moderate (Level 4 of 5) risk further to the west.
Damaging winds are the main concern, with a threat for a few tornadoes as well. Gusts in excess of 70 mph, and a few strong tornadoes (EF2+) are possible.
Threat timing will be focused on this afternoon into early evening. The tornado threat will be highest Noon to 5 pm, with the wind risk peaking Noon to 10 pm.
From our news services
The North Carolina Weather Forecast Office out of Newport/Morehead Cityvvhas issued a severe weather alert for eastern North Carolina from Sunday afternoon (March 15) through 2 a.m. Tuesday.
This afternoon and evening a warm front will bring conditions favorable for strong to marginally severe thunderstorms.
After that, a strong cold front will move through late Monday, with the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms throughout the day Monday.
Primary threats include damaging wind gusts, strong tornadoes, and small hail.
The greatest risk is expected Monday afternoon and evening, with damaging winds and tornadoes most likely. Wind gusts over 70 mph and a few strong tornadoes (EF2 or stronger) are possible.
-High winds may force temporary suspension of ferry operations until conditions improve.
Advisories:
– A High Surf Advisory is in effect from 4 p.m. Sunday through 2 a.m. Tuesday for East Carteret, Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands.
– Large breaking waves of 6–9 feet are expected, affecting beaches from Oregon Inlet to Cape Lookout.
– Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and areas of localized beach erosion are expected.
– Strong winds will build seas and increase the risk of ocean overwash in vulnerable coastal areas exposed to strong southerly swells.
