OUTER BANKS, N.C. (WAVY) — Outer Banks communities are making preparations ahead of an impending coastal Carolina storm that could bring with it significant flooding and the possibility of more Rodanthe homes collapsing into the Atlantic Ocean.
A tropical storm warning is in effect along the North Carolina coast for areas south of Ocracoke Inlet, with the strongest wind gusts of 40 mph to 50 mph are expected within the warning area from potential tropical cyclone eight, according to the North Carolina Department of Emergency Management. There are also small craft advisories along the Outer Banks, and an increased tornado threat for far eastern North Carolina.
Everyone is bracing for a low-pressure system to the south, and King Tides, which are higher than usual because the full moon is closer to the Earth.
The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is asking people to avoid the northern end of Ocracoke Island during high tide Monday evening. The Avon Fishing Pier has remained closed through much of the day Monday as it said they were making sure everything there is safe.