A potent low-pressure system is forecasted for this weekend’s Outer Banks weather, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms, as warned by the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City office.

Residents should stay informed about the approaching weather. Coastal flooding and hazardous marine conditions are possible. Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands could see 2-3 inches of rainfall, leading to localized ocean overwash and beach erosion along N.C. Highway 12.

The NWS cautions of possible strong to severe thunderstorms along the coast.

Throughout the weekend, forecasters expect wind gusts to reach speeds of 45-55 mph. Southerly winds will peak Friday night into Saturday morning, followed by northerly winds peaking Saturday night into Sunday evening.

Minor to moderate coastal flooding is likely, particularly along soundside and oceanside areas. These impacts could linger into Monday, affecting travel and infrastructure along the Outer Banks.

While uncertainties persist about the track and intensity of the low-pressure system, the NWS will continue to monitor closely and provide updates.

“We’re closely monitoring this weather system and its potential impacts on the Outer Banks,” said a spokesperson from the NWS Newport/Morehead City office. “We encourage residents to stay informed through our updates and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.”

For further weather updates, residents can visit www.weather.gov/mhx or follow the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.

Additionally, individuals can sign up for text and/or email alerts via the N.C. Ferry System’s FINS system at www.ncdot.gov/fins to receive notifications of ferry delays or cancellations directly from the terminal.

Road condition updates can be found at https://DriveNC.gov.