The Village of Bald Head Island is monitoring the progress of Potential Tropical Cyclone #9 (PTC #9). There are no tropical watches/warnings in effect at this time.
Current Forecast:
According to NWS Wilmington’s latest briefing (HERE), PTC #9 is located near eastern Cuba and is forecast to move north-northwestward across The Bahamas and toward the Southeast U.S. the first part of next week.
While there is significant uncertainty in the future track, the chances of wind, rainfall, & storm surge impacts for a portion of the southeast U.S. coast continue to increase.
Summary of Potential Impacts
- Winds to tropical storm force are possible, and hurricane force winds are not out of the question for portions of the Carolinas early next week. These winds could cause power outages and downed trees/limbs.
- Storm surge flooding and significant beach erosion are possible for some coastal areas of the Carolinas early next week.
- Flooding from heavy rainfall is likely early next week, especially across prone and low-lying areas, with the heaviest rainfall expected Monday through Tuesday, possibly through late week.
- There may be a risk of tornadoes, especially Monday night into Tuesday, across portions of southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina.
- Dangerous marine/surf conditions are expected to develop on Monday, along with strong rip currents through at least the first half of next week. Swells from Humberto will also add to the hazardous maritime and beach conditions.
This is an evolving weather situation, and the Village will continue to monitor the NWS briefings and share them on our social channels (HERE). More frequent updates will also be posted on the Severe Weather Event webpage HERE.
Village Response:
The Village is coordinating with the BHI Club and is monitoring the lagoons. The Club reported “a well below-average water table.” Public Services has been checking and clearing drainage ditches/swales and doing maintenance checks on the Village’s stormwater pumps and related equipment (hoses, generators, etc.). Staff are participating in Brunswick County Emergency Management briefings.
Guidance for Islanders:
Take this opportunity to make sure your preparedness kit is accessible and fully stocked. Make sure you have all your medications for the remainder of the week. Pick up any packages you may have at the IPC/PO. Expect possible delays in deliveries if the barge is suspended. Be prepared for possible impacts to ferry operations (check the BHIT app and website for updates).
Heavy rainfall will impact the island’s roadways and result in significant ponding in several areas. The water can get deep and could damage golf carts. Wind impacts could be significant. It’s a good idea to secure your outdoor items and move items that may get wet. Always “know before you go” and check the beach forecast for rip current conditions. You can do that online HERE.
Stay connected to your trusted weather source for further developments and remain cautious as conditions could become increasingly hazardous.
Additional communications will be coming as the certainty in the storm impacts increases. The next NWS briefing is expected by tomorrow (9/27) at 6 a.m.
Emergency Preparedness Resources
Village Severe Weather Event Webpage
Village Emergency Preparedness Webpage
Power Outage Info
ReadyNC
Ready.gov
Find us on social media HERE.