NEWPORT, N.C. — North Carolina will experience wet weather through the weekend with the potential for severe thunderstorms. Residents can expect 1-2 inches of rain on Sunday, with localized amounts of more than 3 inches possible.
Several storms could become severe today, bringing damaging wind gusts and frequent downpours, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Newport/Morehead City. Flooding may occur in areas with heavy rainfall. The current risk level for severe weather is Marginal (Level 1/Level 5).
The weather forecast for Saturday, July 20, calls for highs of 87°F in New Bern and 82°F in Manteo, with chances of thunderstorms at 60% and 50%, respectively. Additionally, there is a high risk of life-threatening rip currents south of Cape Hatteras, particularly in the surf zones of beaches such as Cape Lookout, Frisco, and Buxton.
The National Weather Service advises residents to remain vigilant, avoid flooded areas and stay informed about weather updates. Beachgoers are urged to heed rip current warnings and use caution near water.