Coastal Flood Advisory in West Carteret Warns of Inundation and Dangerous Surf Through Thursday
WEST CARTERET, North Carolina — The National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City has issued a coastal flood advisory for West Carteret County, warning of minor flooding and hazardous surf conditions through 8 p.m. Thursday.
The advisory, released early Monday morning, is effective from 11 p.m. Tuesday until Thursday evening. Officials say 1 to 2 feet of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways.
Flooding Risks for Property and Roads
According to the NWS, shallow flooding could impact roads, parking lots, parks, and lawns near the waterfront. Homes in flood-prone areas may also be at risk of minor water intrusion.
Residents are urged not to drive through standing water. “Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth,” the NWS cautioned. Even seemingly shallow floodwaters can stall vehicles or sweep them off the roadway.
Hazardous Surf and Rip Currents
In addition to flooding, forecasters warn of dangerous swimming and surfing conditions as well as localized beach erosion. Strong rip currents could sweep swimmers into deeper waters, posing a life-threatening risk.
The NWS advises inexperienced swimmers to stay out of the water until conditions improve. If caught in a rip current, experts recommend swimming parallel to the shoreline, floating if necessary, and signaling for help if unable to escape.
Safety Precautions During Coastal Flooding
Officials are reminding residents in flood-prone areas to take steps to protect themselves and their property:
- Move to higher ground if possible.
- Secure or disconnect utilities and appliances before leaving.
- Stay away from flooded basements and electrical hazards.
- Never walk through moving floodwaters — just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet.
The advisory comes as the region faces seasonal weather shifts that often bring heavy rain, strong tides, and coastal flooding. Residents are urged to remain alert, follow safety advisories, and prepare for potential disruptions through Thursday evening.
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