“Tropical Storm Ophelia Brings Wet, Windy Weekend to East Coast”

By Better Today On Sep 22, 2023

TL/DR –

Tropical Storm Ophelia is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding to the East Coast, with North Carolina bearing the brunt of the storm. The storm’s 60-mph winds may cause power outages, particularly along the coast, leading North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper to declare a state of emergency. Areas along the coast, from Surf City, North Carolina to Manasquan Inlet on the New Jersey shore, could experience storm surges of one to five feet, with the greatest risk of storm surge flooding coinciding with Saturday’s high tides.

Tropical Storm Ophelia Advances Towards East Coast

The East Coast is bracing for a weekend of stormy weather as Tropical Storm Ophelia brings heavy wind and rain, affecting areas far from the storm’s center. Coastal regions will face the greatest impact, though the interior won’t be spared.

Ophelia is expected to make landfall in North Carolina on Saturday, with its effects reaching as far as southern New England. Follow the progression of the storm here.

Ophelia’s high-speed winds may cause power outages, especially along the coast. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency on Friday to assist in emergency response.

Storm Warnings Extended

As the storm nears, North Carolina and Virginia are facing worsening conditions, prompting tropical storm warnings from Charleston, South Carolina, to the Maryland-Delaware state line. Storm surge warnings cover areas from Surf City, North Carolina, to the Chesapeake Bay.

Tornadoes are also a possibility in certain areas of the coastal Mid-Atlantic.

Risks of Flooding and Surge

The biggest risk of heavy rain and flooding is in eastern North Carolina and southeast Virginia, with 3-5 inches of rainfall expected. Some areas may see up to 7 inches if strong thunderstorms develop. From the mid-Atlantic to southern New England, rainfall of 2-4 inches is anticipated over the weekend.

Coastal regions also face the danger of storm surge and coastal flooding, powerful rip currents, and rough surf. Storm surge of 1-5 feet is likely around Surf City, North Carolina, to Manasquan Inlet, New Jersey.

The greatest storm surge flooding risk coincides with high tides on Saturday, particularly from New Jersey to the Virginia Tidewater. Over two dozen flood gauges are expected to show moderate or major flood levels Saturday, potentially causing coastal property damage and blocked roads.