Ocean overwash has been reported in Buxton late Saturday afternoon ahead of the roughly 6:30 p.m. high tide, with additional flooding and sand expected in vulnerable areas between Buxton and Oregon Inlet this evening. Motorists are urged to use caution, as N.C. Highway 12 may become affected by saltwater and debris during periods of higher surf and tide.
The National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for Hatteras Island from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, October 18, due to the potential for ocean overwash and minor flooding in low-lying areas between Buxton and Oregon Inlet.
A High Surf Advisory also remains in effect through 8 a.m. Sunday, with large breaking waves of 6 to 9 feet expected in the surf zone.
Forecasters warn that overwash is possible several hours before and after high tide, which will occur between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m. this evening. Vulnerable stretches of N.C. Highway 12 and locations with weakened or low dunes—particularly near Pea Island, Rodanthe, and Buxton—may experience flooding and sand on the roadway. Motorists are advised to use caution and avoid saltwater when possible.
According to the weather service, long-period ocean swells will persist through this evening as high pressure moves offshore and a cold front approaches from the west, bringing increasing southerly winds and hazardous marine conditions through the weekend.
While today’s temperatures remain mild, forecasters note that cooler, drier air will arrive behind the front early next week, ending the period of unsettled coastal weather.
Residents and visitors are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways and to continue monitoring official updates as conditions change.
For the latest information, visit the National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City for current coastal flood advisories, and DriveNC.gov for updated road conditions on N.C. Highway 12.
Northern Pea Island at 5:40 p.m.