Outer Banks, NC, October 12, 2025
News Summary
A coastal storm is predicted to bring significant flooding and high winds to North Carolina’s Outer Banks. The National Weather Service warns of rising water levels, dangerous surf, and advisories for local roads as the storm approaches, leading to concerns over community events and safety.
Coastal Storm Forecasted to Bring Major Flooding and High Winds to North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Morehead City, NC – A coastal storm is forecasted to approach the East Coast, bringing significant impacts to North Carolina’s Outer Banks. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Morehead City warns of moderate coastal flooding, with water levels expected to rise by 1 to 3 feet until 5 p.m. on Saturday. Following that, a Coastal Flood Warning for locally major coastal flooding will begin at 5 p.m. Saturday and remain in effect until 8 a.m. on Monday.
The storm’s predicted trajectory remains unclear, but ocean water levels may rise by 2 to 4 feet, leading to dangerous conditions along the coast. Additionally, the NWS has issued a High Surf Advisory until Monday morning, with surf waves anticipated to reach 8 to 11 feet. East and northeast winds could peak at up to 50 mph through Saturday and Sunday, before shifting direction on Sunday.
In the Pamlico Sound, a Gale Warning will go into effect at 5 p.m. Saturday, continuing until 4 p.m. Sunday. Heavy rainfall is also expected, with accumulations contributing to flash flooding and ponding on local roads, particularly NC 12.
Local Road Conditions and Safety Advisories
Currently, NC 12 remains open on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands; however, drivers are advised to proceed with caution due to the presence of blown sand and water on the road surface. As of Saturday midday, a section of NC 12 from the Ocracoke ferry terminal to the National Park Service Pony Pens was closed due to heavy ocean overwash, with no estimated reopening time provided.
The developing nor’easter storm is expected to deliver significant coastal impacts from the Carolinas to the Mid-Atlantic and potentially into the Northeast. Isolated areas along Florida’s east coast could see up to 6 inches of rain, while up to 4 inches of rain is anticipated along the Outer Banks. The coastal flooding threat may be further heightened due to the seasonal king tides occurring concurrently with the storm.
Coastal Flooding: A Dual Threat
There’s concern that the storm could create a “combo flood threat,” resulting in both freshwater and saltwater flooding in affected areas. A series of watches and advisories have been issued along the Eastern Seaboard in anticipation of strong wind gusts and rip currents, while forecasts predict additional issues due to coastal flooding, beach erosion, and dangerous conditions.
The potential impact of the storm has raised concerns for community events and travel in the affected regions, leading to the possibility of cancellations or delays for local events, including the Working Watermen’s Festival. Tidal conditions during the festival period indicate that high tide timings will feature the highest expected water levels during daytime tides from October 8 to October 13.
Additional Weather Developments
Alongside the coastal storm, Tropical Storm Jerry is also being monitored, with projections suggesting it may strengthen into a hurricane, generating additional swells that could affect North Carolina’s coastline over the same weekend.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coastal Flooding Impact | 1 to 3 feet of flooding until Saturday; Major flooding warning from 5 p.m. Saturday to 8 a.m. Monday |
| Wind Conditions | Up to 50 mph east and northeast winds through weekend |
| Rainfall | Up to 4 inches along Outer Banks; 6 inches in isolated Florida areas |
| Surf Conditions | Waves at 8 to 11 feet with a High Surf Advisory in effect |
| Impacts on Local Roads | NC 12 closed in portions; proceed with caution on other open sections |
| Festival Impact | Potential delays/cancellations for Working Watermen’s Festival due to flooding threats |
FAQ
What is the expected impact of the coastal storm on North Carolina’s Outer Banks?
A forecast coastal storm is expected to bring significant impacts including moderate coastal flooding, rising ocean water levels of 1 to 3 feet, and high winds.
What precautions are being advised for NC 12?
Drivers are advised to proceed with caution on NC 12 due to the presence of blown sand and water on the road surface. A section of NC 12 is currently closed due to heavy ocean overwash.
What rainfall amounts are expected?
Up to 4 inches of rain is expected along the Outer Banks, with isolated areas along Florida’s east coast possibly receiving up to 6 inches.
What are the expected wind conditions?
East and northeast winds may reach up to 50 mph through Saturday and Sunday, shifting directions on Sunday.
Will there be any festival disruptions?
There are concerns about potential cancellations or delays for local events such as the Working Watermen’s Festival due to anticipated flooding.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Coastal Flood Warning Issued for Northern Outer Banks
High Wind Warning Issued for Northern Outer Banks, NC
Ocracoke Island Highway Closure Due to Severe Weather
Severe Erosion Crisis Hits Buxton, North Carolina
Nor’easter Threatens East Coast with Coastal Flooding and High Winds
Nine Oceanfront Homes in Buxton Collapse into Atlantic Ocean
Coastal Erosion Causes Collapse of Homes in Buxton
Severe Erosion Causes House Collapses in Outer Banks
Mandatory Evacuations in North Carolina Ahead of Hurricane Erin
Nor’easter Set to Hit East Coast, Heavy Rain and Flooding Expected
Additional Resources
- The Coastland Times
- Wikipedia: Noreaster
- USA Today
- Google Search: Coastal Storm
- Newsweek
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Storm Forecast
- Ocracoke Observer
- Google News: Outer Banks Weather
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.
