Forecast: High winds possible this weekend

Published 11:42 am Friday, March 31, 2023

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From Chris Newkirk / Beaufort County Emergency Services:

There were minor changes to this morning’s update from the National Weather Service, which included a slight increase in wind gust values as well as increased confidence of for severe storms on Saturday. These changes have been highlighted below:

Current Beaufort County Forecast

Winds

South winds are expected to increase Friday and remain elevated through noon on Sunday as follows:

  • Friday: S winds sustained between 15 and 20 mph, with gust of 20 – 25 mph.
  • Saturday: S winds transitioning to SW sustained between 20 and 25 mph, with gust of 35 – 45 mph. (Especially between 9am and 6pm)
  • Sunday: SW winds transitioning to the N sustained between 10 and 15 mph, with gust of 15 to 25 through noon.

Rain & Severe Weather

  • There is a chance of rain between 9am and 6pm Saturday, with rain likely between 2pm and 4pm. Most areas of Beaufort County are forecasted to receive less than ¼ of an inch.
  • Confidence in the development of potentially severe storms on Saturday continues to increase. Current forecast models suggest the greatest risk of storms will occur between 10am and 6pm.

Please see below for this morning’s update  and attached briefing from the National Weather Service for more information.

 

From the National Weather Service / Morehead City:

Confidence in impacts of strong winds and potential severe weather with tomorrow’s strong cold front continue to increase, with the latest briefing outlining these impacts in more detail.

 

WHAT’S NEW:

* Wind Advisories issued for Outer Banks and Carteret County. May be expanded further today.

* Gale Watches upgraded to Gale Warnings for most area waterways.

* Details added on coastal flood threat.

NWS Morehead City – Briefing 3 – April 1st Strong Cold Front