A low-pressure system off the coast of the Carolinas will rapidly strengthen Friday, significantly impacting the Outer Banks with gusty winds, moderate to major coastal flooding, and heavy rain.
As the storm began to develop, impacts began to spread along the South Carolina coast Thursday morning, with coastal flood warnings in effect for Charleston and Colleton counties.
The National Weather Service office in Charleston announced that the tide gauge at Charleston Harbor peaked at 8.08 feet at major flood stage, with Fort Harbor reporting a moderate flood stage of 10.25 feet. Pulaski tide gauge.
Charleston Police Department has closed several roads throughout downtown as extensive saltwater flooding continues.
Coastal flooding was seen in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, on Thursday as storm surge affected low-lying areas.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina is warning of dangerous conditions due to a low pressure system.
Strong winds, high waves and coastal flooding are expected into Saturday.
The beach between Rodanse and Buxton is closed due to debris risk.
All campsites are open but flooding may occur in low lying areas.
Storm warnings have been issued for much of the North Carolina coast.
With northerly winds gusting in excess of 55 mph and potentially dangerous waters, the National Weather Service has issued a storm watch for much of the North Carolina coast starting Thursday night and running through at least Friday.
Rainfall expected in cities like Raleigh and Greensboro is expected to be relatively light, around 1 to 2 inches, but coastal areas could see significantly more rain, which combined with high sea levels May lead to flooding.
“Sailors should remain in port, change course, and prepare to secure their vessels for severe conditions before conditions worsen,” NWS meteorologists warned boaters in the Carolinas.
Based on projections, coastal flooding levels of 2 to 4 feet could impact the Outer Banks and cause additional problems with flooding and erosion on Highway 12.
So far this year, four uninhabited homes have collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean, and several more are on the verge of similar damage.
During severe weather events, parts of the beaches around Rodanse and Buxton are often closed due to dangerous debris.
Rough waves can dislodge pipes and wires and expose concrete, posing a danger to beachgoers and sailors.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation constantly monitors roads along the Outer Banks and may close major thoroughfares when conditions warrant.
Only modest improvements are expected over the weekend as the storm system generally moves east over the Atlantic Ocean.
Astronomical king tides are expected to maintain elevated water levels for extended periods of time due to full moon cycles.
King tides occur when the moon's gravity causes extreme water levels and only occur during full or new moon cycles.
An area of high pressure is expected to develop over the region next week, which will result in calmer and clearer weather.
