The National Hurricane Center has issued a Tropical Storm Warning and a Storm Surge Watch for Dare County due to expected impacts from Tropical Storm Ian.
A Tropical Storm Warning indicates that tropical storm conditions—including winds over 39 mph—are possible within 36 hours.
A Storm Surge Watch indicates that life-threatening inundation is possible somewhere within the specified area, generally within 48 hours.
The National Weather Service at Newport/Morehead City’s local statement for Tropical Storm Ian says to expect 25-35 mph winds with gusts up to 50 mph; the potential for storm surge 2-4 feet above ground somewhere within surge-prone areas; and 4-8 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts. These conditions are expected to persist into the weekend.
Ocean overwash is possible, particularly along vulnerable stretches of N.C. Highway 12. Those residing within oceanfront properties should also take action to protect their property from flooding.
Strong winds and rough surf will result in an increased risk of strong rip currents. Even the most experienced swimmers are advised to stay out of the ocean due to the dangerous surf conditions that will be created in all areas of Dare County throughout the weekend.
Dare County Emergency Management offers the following tips and resources:
- View the latest watches, warnings and advisories from the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/mhx or https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.
- Be mindful that the threat of rip currents will increase and remain elevated until well after the storm passes, making conditions dangerous for even the most experienced swimmers. For daily beach reports, visit LovetheBeachRespectheOcean.com.
- Keep your cell phone charged and have Government Alerts enabled to ensure you receive National Weather Service-issued alerts for life-threatening weather conditions.
- For the most up-to-date information regarding road conditions on N.C. Highway 12, follow the North Carolina Department of Transportation on Facebook at www.facebook/ncdotnc12, on Twitter @NCDOTNC12 or visit drivenc.gov.
To sign up for emergency alerts from Dare County Emergency Management, please visit www.OBXAlerts.com.