North Carolina Severe Coastal Flood Warning | Effective 10/17/2026 12:46

Headline: 
Coastal Flood Warning issued October 17 at 3:46PM EDT until October 20 at 5:00PM EDT by NWS Newport/Morehead City NC
Event: 
Coastal Flood Warning
Urgency: 
Expected
Effective: 
October 17, 2026 - 12:46pm
Expires: 
October 18, 2026 - 3:00am
Description: 
* WHAT...For the Beach Hazards Statement, dangerous rip currents, large breaking waves expected, and strong longshore currents in the surf zone. For the High Surf Advisory, large breaking waves of 8 to 14 feet expected in the surf zone. For the Coastal Flood Warning, 2 to 4 feet of inundation above ground level expected in low- lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. * WHERE...Hatteras Island. * WHEN...For the High Surf Advisory, until 5 PM EDT Tuesday. For the Beach Hazards Statement, until 8 PM EDT this evening. For the Coastal Flood Warning, until 5 PM EDT Tuesday. * IMPACTS...2 to 4 feet of inundation above ground level is expected in some areas near shorelines and tidal waterways resulting in an elevated threat of property damage. Flooding will extend inland from the waterfront threatening some homes and businesses. Numerous road closures and flooding of vehicles will be possible. Vulnerable portions of NC-12 may be inundated, especially around high tide. There is a possibility of being stranded on Hatteras Island for multiple days. This could be life threatening if you have an emergency. Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...This has the potential to be a long duration event bringing more significant ocean overwash impacts to vulnerable oceanside areas through multiple high tide cycles into next week. Minor soundside water level rises will also be possible.
Instruction: 
If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. Prepare for being stranded on Hatteras Island for multiple days. Prepare for disruptions to ferries by this evening and lasting into at least part of next week. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions.
Area Description: 
Hatteras Island
Forcast Office: 
NWS Newport/Morehead City NC
Sender: 
w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov