Tropical Storm Ernesto is expected to strengthen into a hurricane in the next few days and pass well to our east by this weekend, reports the National Weather Service – Newport/Morehead City (NOAA).
Like we have experienced before, this does not mean we will escape impacts from the storm. Unfortunately, strong swells from Ernesto will combine with higher than normal tides and potentially nice beach weather, over a weekend.
The NOAA says they are very concerned at this potential for a high risk of rip currents coinciding with high populations at the beach this weekend due to the nice weather.
Other coastal hazards including beach erosion, over wash and a generally higher than normal water level are also expected. Those details will become more clear in the coming days.
