News Summary
Tropical Storm Dexter, the fourth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, has formed off the North Carolina coast with sustained winds at 45 mph. Currently located 400 miles east of North Carolina, the storm is projected to move east-northeast away from the area. North Carolina’s Outer Banks are experiencing dangerous rip currents as Dexter progresses. While the storm poses no immediate threat to land, meteorologists continue to monitor its movements and future weather systems emerging from the Atlantic.
Wilmington, North Carolina – Tropical Storm Dexter has formed off the coast of North Carolina, marking the fourth named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. The storm, which was upgraded from a tropical disturbance late Sunday night by the National Hurricane Center, is currently situated nearly 400 miles east of the North Carolina coast and is expected to move east-northeast, away from the East Coast.
As of its formation, Tropical Storm Dexter exhibits top sustained winds of 45 mph, with higher gusts possible. The storm’s tropical-storm-force winds extend 140 miles outward from its center. Dexter is progressing to the east-northeast at a speed of 12 mph. A quicker east-northeastward motion is expected through early Tuesday, with a gradual slowdown anticipated on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Before its formation, the disturbance had shown only a 40% chance of developing into a tropical system on Sunday morning. By Sunday night, this likelihood had increased to 80%, prompting the National Hurricane Center to upgrade it to a named storm.
Potential Hazards
Over the weekend, the North Carolina Outer Banks experienced dangerous rip currents and high seas, a potential hazard associated with Tropical Storm Dexter. Local authorities have warned residents and visitors to exercise caution while engaging in water activities as the storm passes offshore.
Future Developments
Looking ahead, meteorologists are monitoring a tropical wave that is expected to emerge from the west coast of Africa in the coming days. This wave carries a 40% chance of developing into a tropical system later this week as it moves west-northwest across the Atlantic Ocean. However, this upcoming tropical wave does not pose a direct threat to North Carolina at this time.
Background on Tropical Storm Dexter
Tropical Storm Dexter’s formation follows a typical pattern observed during the Atlantic hurricane season. The season, which officially runs from June 1 to November 30, often witnesses several storms developing in the Atlantic, some of which can potentially impact coastal areas. The upgrading of disturbances to named storms indicates a strengthening in their organization and potential threat to land.
The absence of immediate threats from Tropical Storm Dexter is a relief to coastal residents and vacationers in North Carolina, especially after last year’s more active hurricane season. Meteorologists emphasize the need for continued vigilance as storms can rapidly change in intensity and direction.
In summary, while Tropical Storm Dexter is currently moving away from North Carolina, precautions are advised due to the still-present risks of rip currents and high seas. The National Hurricane Center will continue to provide updates on Dexter and any other weather systems that could develop in the Atlantic over the coming days.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
North Carolina Launches Hurricane Preparedness Campaign
Additional Resources
- ABC News
- Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
- News Observer
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Chantal
- CBS 17
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storm
- New York Times
- Google News: Tropical Storm Chantal North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
