A strong low-pressure system forming off the Carolina coast is set to cause significant issues for the Outer Banks, including damaging winds, coastal flooding, and heavy rainfall. The storm has already started affecting areas along the South Carolina coast, with a Coastal Flood Warning issued for Charleston and Colleton counties.
In Charleston, tide levels have reached over 8 feet, leading to major flooding, particularly in the downtown area where several roads have been closed. Similar flooding has impacted low-lying areas in Mount Pleasant.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore has raised warnings about dangerous conditions, advising that high winds, strong surf, and flooding are expected to last through Saturday. Beaches between Rodanthe and Buxton are closed due to debris, and while campgrounds remain open, flooding is likely in lower areas.
A Storm Watch is currently in effect for much of coastal North Carolina, predicting wind gusts of up to 55 mph and hazardous sea conditions. Rainfall is expected to be modest in cities like Raleigh and Greensboro, but coastal regions could see much higher amounts, leading to possible flooding.
Boaters in the Carolinas are being urged to stay safe by remaining in port or securing their vessels before conditions worsen. In addition, projections suggest that coastal flooding could reach levels of 2 to 4 feet in the Outer Banks, posing risks to roads like Highway 12 and causing erosion problems.
This year, four homes have already fallen into the Atlantic Ocean due to the ongoing erosion, with threats to others as rough surf continues to destabilize structures. The North Carolina Department of Transportation is actively monitoring the situation and may close roads as deemed necessary.
As the storm moves eastward over the Atlantic, only minor improvements in conditions are expected over the weekend. High tides caused by the full moon will likely keep water levels elevated for some time, until high pressure returns next week, which should bring calmer and clearer weather.
