UPDATED: High wind, coastal flood warnings issued ahead of ‘life-threatening’ nor’easter

The Town of Kill Devil Hills piles up sand at beach access points ahead of this weekend's nor'easter. [Kari Pugh photo]

The National Weather Service has issued high wind and coastal flooding warnings for the Outer Banks beginning at 7 a.m. tomorrow as a dangerous and slow-moving nor’easter hits.

Sustained northeast winds 40 to 50 mph with gusts up to 65 mph are expected from the northern Outer Banks to Hatteras and Ocracoke through Sunday afternoon.

NWS graphic

Life threatening inundation is also possible oceanside from Duck down to Ocracoke Island and soundside on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, the weather service said.

Surf heights of 10 to 15 feet are expected, with beach erosion and ocean overwash.
The nor’easter has the potential to cause life-threatening storm surge inundation 2 to 4 feet above ground level for oceanside communities and in soundside areas adjacent to Pamlico Sound, authorities said.

High surf, beach erosion and ocean overwash are expected. According to NCDOT, depending on the storm surge and overwash, portions of N.C. 12 could be closed for extended periods during high tide cycles over the next few days.

NCDOT say the most severe ocean overwash will likely occur in Kitty Hawk near mile post 2 and on Pea Island.

Transportation crews have been staging motor graders and other equipment on Pea Island in advance of the storm and will have crews on call ready to respond to assess road conditions and clear sand-covered roads when conditions permit. Forecasters expect the system to move offshore Sunday into Monday morning.

“All residents, visitors and property owners, especially those in oceanfront areas and places prone to soundside flooding, are advised to take precautions now to protect property,” Dare County emergency management officials said in a news release. “Outdoor furnishings, trash cans, and any loose items should be properly secured.”

Visitors should contact accommodations providers for updates on local conditions, monitor the storm and plan accordingly if travel is necessary.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore will close the Oregon Inlet, Frisco and Cape Point campgrounds at noon Friday. The campgrounds will reopen after the storm passes and assessments are completed.

Motorists should proceed with extreme caution this weekend and check road conditions before traveling, especially during periods of high tide, authorities say.

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Kari Pugh is digital director for OBXToday.com, Beach 104, 99.1 The Sound, 94.5 WCMS and News Talk 92.3 WZPR. Reach her at kpugh@jammediallc.com