Nags Head, NC, September 30, 2025
News Summary
The National Weather Service has announced a coastal flood advisory for the Northern Outer Banks, effective from 11 a.m. Tuesday to 8 p.m. Friday. As Hurricane Erin approaches, areas can expect minor flooding of 1 to 2 feet above ground in low-lying regions. Dangerous swimming conditions due to high waves are anticipated, and residents are urged to heed evacuation orders and protect their properties.
Nags Head, NC – The National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City NC has issued a coastal flood advisory for the Northern Outer Banks, effective from 11 a.m. Tuesday until 8 p.m. Friday. This advisory comes as Hurricane Erin, now categorized as a Category 2 storm and located approximately 200 miles offshore from North Carolina, is expected to cause severe weather impacts in the region.
Areas in the advisory will likely experience minor inundation of 1 to 2 feet above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. The NWS warns of a low threat of property damage due to shallow flooding that could affect some roads and properties. Residents are urged to take necessary actions to protect flood-prone properties and exercise caution while traveling.
Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions are anticipated due to the high waves forecasted to reach 15 to 20 feet along the central coast, with 8 to 12 feet on southern and northeastern beaches. The storm surge is projected to inundate 2 to 4 feet above ground level along the oceanside, posing a significant threat to life and property.
Travel Advisory and Safety Tips
Residents are advised to allow extra travel time, as some roads may be closed due to flooding. It is crucial to avoid driving around barricades or through unknown depths of water. Individuals in flood-prone areas or camping in low-lying spots should move to higher ground immediately upon receiving evacuation orders. Additionally, homes should be locked up and utilities disconnected if evacuation is possible.
During this advisory, swimming is not recommended, especially for inexperienced swimmers, due to life-threatening rip currents. If caught in a rip current, individuals should remain calm and swim parallel to the shore or float until out of danger. Notably, even 6 inches of swiftly moving water can knock a person off their feet, and as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most vehicles.
Details on Hurricane Erin
Hurricane Erin is impacting the region with wind gusts of 56 mph recorded off Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head. The wind field from the storm will begin causing significant impacts to the Outer Banks starting Tuesday. Additionally, severe flooding is expected to extend inland, with portions of Highway 12 predicted to be impassable for several days.
A state of emergency has been declared in Dare County due to anticipated dangerous surf, wind, and storm surge flooding. Coastal flooding and beach erosion are expected to worsen as Hurricane Erin progresses offshore. Rip current warnings remain in effect for beaches along the East Coast, while many beaches have closed and rescues are reportedly being conducted due to rising floodwaters in areas like Margate City, NJ.
The situation is further complicated by the monitoring of several developing systems in the Atlantic, raising the potential for another storm formation. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow all safety recommendations amid these challenging conditions.
Conclusion
As Hurricane Erin approaches the North Carolina coastline, residents in the Northern Outer Banks should stay informed about the weather conditions and adhere to safety advisories issued by local authorities to ensure their safety during this storm event.
FAQ Section
What is the coastal flood advisory for the Northern Outer Banks?
The advisory is valid from 11 a.m. Tuesday until 8 p.m. Friday for Northern Outer Banks, issuing warnings for minor inundation of 1 to 2 feet above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways.
What safety measures should residents take?
Residents should prepare by protecting flood-prone properties, avoiding driving through floodwaters, and moving to higher ground if in a low-lying area upon evacuation orders.
What are the expected impacts from Hurricane Erin?
Hurricane Erin is expected to cause dangerous swimming and surfing conditions, high waves of 15 to 20 feet, and storm surge inundating 2 to 4 feet above ground level, potentially damaging homes and businesses.
Key Features of Hurricane Erin and Advisory
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Advisory Duration | 11 a.m. Tuesday to 8 p.m. Friday |
| Inundation Level | 1 to 2 feet above ground in low-lying areas |
| Waves Height | 15 to 20 feet along central coast |
| Storm Surge Projection | 2 to 4 feet above ground level |
| Wind Gusts Recorded | 56 mph off Jennette’s Pier |
| Evacuation Status | Evacuation orders issued for Outer Banks |
| State of Emergency | Declared in Dare County |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
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.
