Coastal communities along the East Coast are facing a challenging weather pattern characterized by strong onshore winds, rough surf, and a high risk of rip currents. These conditions are expected to persist, leading to potential minor overwash and advisories for several areas, particularly the Outer Banks.
Key Takeaways
- Gusty north/northeast winds are driving rough surf and potential overwash.
- Higher than normal tides, exacerbated by the full moon, are contributing to coastal flooding.
- A high risk of rip currents means ocean swimming is strongly discouraged.
- Conditions are expected to gradually improve later in the week.
Persistent Coastal Conditions
Eastern North Carolina, including the Outer Banks, is currently situated between a high-pressure system to the north and a stalled offshore front. This meteorological setup is generating persistent strong north to northeast winds, which have been impacting the region for several days and are forecast to continue.
The combination of these winds and higher-than-normal tides, a result of the recent full moon, is causing ocean water to reach the base of dunes. In areas lacking dunes, such as parts of Buxton, the water is encroaching on oceanfront properties and roadways like N.C. 12 and Old Lighthouse Road.
A Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect for the oceanside of Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, as well as the Currituck Outer Banks, including Corolla and its four-wheel-drive areas up to the state line. Water levels are anticipated to be one to two feet above normal during the one to two hours before and after high tide, which occurred around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday and is expected again around 10 a.m. Wednesday.
Safety Warnings and Outlook
Forecasters are issuing strong warnings about the significant danger posed by rip currents and strong longshore currents along the Outer Banks. Double red flags, signaling that ocean swimming is prohibited, are likely to be flown again. Beachgoers are urged to exercise extreme caution and adhere to all posted warnings.
Looking ahead, a shift in wind direction to the north is expected on Wednesday, with a slight decrease in intensity forecast for Thursday. This change should help alleviate the risk of overwash later in the week. A developing low-pressure system offshore may bring scattered showers through Thursday morning before skies begin to clear heading into the weekend. Temperatures are expected to remain cooler than average, with daytime highs in the mid-70s and overnight lows in the mid-60s.
Sources
- Rough surf, minor overwash at high tide possible through at least midday Wednesday, Island Free Press.
