Low Pressure System to Bring Heavy Rain, Severe Thunderstorms to Eastern NC This Weekend
Eastern North Carolina is bracing itself for a potent low pressure system that is forecasted to impact the region this weekend, causing an array of adverse weather conditions including heavy rain, severe thunderstorms, strong winds, coastal flooding, and hazardous marine conditions. The weather system is anticipated to hit the region starting Friday night, March 22 and extending into Saturday, March 23.
Potential for Rainfall and Flooding
Highest rain intensity is expected to strike late Friday night into Saturday, potentially causing minor flooding in areas with poor drainage. Localities with such conditions should brace themselves for the impending strain on their drainage systems and possible flooding hazards.
Isolated Strong to Severe Thunderstorms
Besides the heavy rains, there’s an increased chance of isolated strong to severe thunderstorms over the weekend, impacting mainly the coastal regions. Coastal communities are thus encouraged to prepare themselves for these storms that might come with high-speed damaging winds.
Strong Winds and Possible Power Disruptions
Consequently, strong winds arising from the approaching system might blow around unsecured light objects and even cause potential power disruptions. Gusts of up to 40-50 mph are anticipated along the coast, with peak winds expected from Friday night into Saturday morning and again from Saturday night into Sunday evening.
Coastal Impacts and Dangerous Marine Conditions
The low pressure system is also anticipated to cause minor to moderate coastal flooding on both the soundside and oceanside. Additional coastal impacts could include ocean overwash, rough surf, and beach erosion. These conditions are expected to persist into Monday within the coastal regions. Moreover, all waterways are forecasted to experience dangerous marine conditions.
Uncertainties with the System’s Track and Strength
In spite of the comprehensive forecasts, there are uncertainties regarding the precise track and strength of the low pressure system. These uncertainties might impact the risk of severe weather, the locations of the heaviest rainfall, as well as the magnitude and duration of the strongest winds. Therefore, it is advisable for residents to keep updated on the situation for any changes in the forecast.
As the weekend approaches, stay alert and prepared. Make all necessary precautions to ensure safety for you and your families during the impending weather conditions. Regularly monitor the situation for any developments, updates, or warnings, and always follow advice and directives from local authorities.
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.
