WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — A powerful coastal low churning along the North Carolina shoreline is bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding to the state this weekend. Forecasters warn that tropical storm-force gusts and dangerous surf will continue into Monday, while inland areas brace for gusty winds and passing showers.

Beaches Face Flooding and High Winds

According to WXII 12 News, the non-tropical storm system has deepened off the coast, generating wind gusts between 40–50 mph along the beaches and dangerous rip currents from the Outer Banks to Oak Island.

Forecasters say rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches are possible along the coastal plain, where high tides and coastal inundation have already caused flooding in low-lying areas.

“This storm is not tropical, but it’s behaving like one,” meteorologist Michelle Kennedy explained. “Flooding will remain a concern for the coast through early Monday as the system slowly pulls away.”

Rain and Wind Spread Inland

While the coast battles flooding, the Piedmont Triad is seeing cloudy skies, passing rain, and gusty winds. Rainfall totals between a quarter and half an inch are expected, with wind gusts up to 30 mph making for a blustery Sunday.

Several forecast models now show the western edge of the storm’s rain bands extending inland as far as Greensboro and Winston-Salem, especially by Sunday morning.

Cooler Temperatures and Early Week Clearing

Behind the storm, Canadian high pressure is keeping temperatures 10 degrees below normal for early October. Highs will remain in the mid-60s, with lows dipping into the 40s and 50s overnight.

By Monday, rain will taper off across central North Carolina, though strong surf and rip currents will persist along the coast into the afternoon.

Dangerous Surf and Travel Warnings

Residents and visitors along the coast are urged to stay out of the water due to life-threatening rip currents. The National Weather Service also advises avoiding travel on flooded roads, especially near tidal creeks and barrier islands.

State transportation crews have been monitoring U.S. Highway 17 and coastal bridges for flooding impacts, with some short-term closures possible during periods of high tide.

Outlook

The storm will move eastward by late Monday, allowing drier and calmer weather to return midweek. However, officials warn that lingering beach erosion and isolated flooding could continue to affect the Crystal Coast and Outer Banks into early Tuesday.

Have you experienced flooding or wind impacts in your area this weekend? Share your photos and reports in the comments and follow SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for ongoing storm updates across North Carolina.