MANTEO, N.C. — Cape Hatteras National Seashore is monitoring potentially hazardous coastal conditions expected from Tuesday, Sept. 22, through Friday, Sept. 25, as a strengthening offshore low-pressure system is expected to impact the Outer Banks.
The National Weather Service currently expects the following impacts:
- Moderate-to-strong north to northeast winds, peaking Thursday through Thursday night.
- Minor to locally moderate coastal flooding. A Coastal Flood Watch is in effect.
- Large waves and dangerous surf conditions.
- Beach erosion and ocean overwash at vulnerable locations. Minor overwash may continue into the weekend, especially for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands around times of high tide.
- Hazardous marine conditions in adjacent coastal waters.
Road Conditions
The stretch of N.C. Highway 12 south of the Marc Basnight Bridge is vulnerable to overwash during prolonged periods of strong northeast winds and large surf. Travelers should expect:
- Sand and standing saltwater on roadways, especially through Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.
- Periodic lane closures or temporary travel disruptions, depending on the severity of overwash.
- Overwash is likely along N.C. 12 between Oregon Inlet and Rodanthe, and possible at the north end of Hatteras village and on the north end of Ocracoke.
Drivers should use caution during severe weather conditions, and monitor updates from the N.C. Department of Transportation and local authorities.
Beach Conditions
East-facing beaches are expected to receive ocean overwash. Off-road vehicle drivers should avoid traveling along east-facing beaches during the storm period. Routes may become inaccessible and vehicles could become stranded.
Visitors should avoid the beach in northern Rodanthe, due to the presence of threatened oceanfront structures.
Swimming in the ocean should also be avoided along all east-facing beaches during the storm period.
Ferry Service may be suspended until safe to resume.
Stay Informed
The Seashore recommends the following:
- Monitor local weather updates at weather.gov/mhx.
- Review drivenc.gov for local road conditions.
- Check Seashore-specific closure alerts, including the likely closure of Bodie Island Lighthouse climbing operations, at nps.gov/caha.
The Weather Service advises motorists to allow extra travel time, prepare for possible road closures and avoid driving around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Property owners in flood-prone areas should take precautions ahead of the storm.