Ocean flooding was reported Friday morning; Coastal flooding and high surf warning valid until Sunday

An update from the National Weather Service said coastal flooding and high surf warnings were issued for the Outer Banks through midday Sunday.

For the Coastal Flood Warning, flooding of up to two feet above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. According to the High Surf Advisory, large breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet and dangerous rip currents are expected in the surf zone.

Ocean flooding was reported in Buxton at around 7am, ahead of high tide at 8.30am on Friday morning. NC Highway 12 is open and passable. However, travelers are advised to slow down and exercise caution as salt water can damage vehicles.

Beach erosion and marine flooding may continue to impact vulnerable areas along the Outer Banks, particularly areas where flooding has repeatedly caused problems (e.g., northern Ocracoke Island, northern Buxton, Rodanthe, and Pea Island).

The greatest risk of flooding and flooding occurs one to two hours before and after high tide, around 8:45 p.m. on Friday and around 9:15 a.m. and 9:40 p.m. on Saturday.

Below is a list of local Outer Banks resources for additional information.

• For Local weather forecast information, Visit Weather.gov/mhx for general weather information or the National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City office Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.
• For Road condition updatesVisit DriveNC.gov and follow the North Carolina Department of Transportation and NCDOT NC 12 on Facebook. The Dare County Sheriff's Office also shares updates on local road conditions on its Facebook page.
• To be notified Ferry delays or cancellationsSign up for SMS and/or email alerts through the NC Ferry System's FINS system: www.ncdot.gov/fins.
• For Rip current information and other beach hazards, sign up for text alerts from Dare County, marine rescue agencies and the National Weather Service by texting “OBXBeachConditions” to 77295.