The Atlantic Ocean is stirring, and a disturbance brewing within it is poised to evolve into a tropical storm, potentially bearing the name Ophelia. As it approaches the North Carolina coast by Friday night, residents and authorities from North Carolina to New Jersey are on high alert. This impending weather system is expected to bring a host of challenges, including high winds, coastal flooding, and life-threatening rip currents over the weekend.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a tropical storm warning spanning from Cape Fear, North Carolina, to Fenwick Island, Delaware. This warning encompasses critical areas like Albemarle and Pamlico sounds in North Carolina, the Tidal Potomac River south of Cobb Island, Maryland, and Chesapeake Bay south of North Beach, Maryland. Additionally, a storm surge watch is in effect from just north of Wilmington, North Carolina, to the Potomac River in Virginia, extending just south of the Delaware line.
One of the primary concerns is heavy rainfall. Between 3 to 5 inches of rain is expected to drench North Carolina and Virginia by Saturday, with certain regions possibly receiving up to 7 inches. The Mid-Atlantic through southern New England is also in the storm’s path, anticipating 2 to 4 inches of rainfall from late Friday into Sunday. These rainfall amounts carry the potential for isolated urban and small stream flooding, caution forecasters.
Coastal areas, from Surf City, North Carolina, to Chincoteague, Virginia, could confront flooding ranging from 2 to 4 feet, particularly if the storm surge coincides with high tide. Portions of the Outer Banks are projected to witness floodwaters rising between 3 and 5 feet. Moreover, the surge could lead to flooding of 2 to 4 feet in the lower Chesapeake Bay and 1 to 3 feet farther up the bay.
As the disturbance continues its northerly trajectory, the NHC notes that “the center of the cyclone is expected to approach the coast of North Carolina within the warning area Friday night and Saturday.” Currently referred to as “Potential Tropical Cyclone 16” by the NHC, it was moving north at 7 mph as of Thursday night, with expectations of a northwest-north path in the coming day.
In addition to other threats, the NHC cautions that a few tornadoes may be possible in the mid-Atlantic states on Friday and Saturday. While the system may not escalate into a hurricane, it is still likely to unleash dangerous tropical-storm conditions along portions of the southeast and mid-Atlantic coasts.
Should the system reach tropical storm strength, it will earn the name Ophelia, marking the 16th named storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and the state’s department of public safety have issued a stern warning to residents in eastern and central parts of the state to brace themselves for tropical weather in the coming days. Emphasizing the potential for downed trees, power outages, and flooding, officials also stress the importance of staying updated with the latest weather forecasts.
Governor Cooper urged preparedness, stating, “As tropical weather is threatening our state again, we are reminded of the importance of being prepared by having a family emergency plan and kit.” The North Carolina Emergency Management department, under the leadership of Director Will Ray, stands ready to provide essential resources to those in need. Stay tuned for further updates and ensure your safety measures are in place as the Atlantic disturbance approaches.
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