Significant impacts are possible across portions of southeast NC, northeast SC, and the nearby Atlantic waters this weekend.
Current Forecast
National Weather Service Wilmington’s latest briefing indicates that a low-pressure system that will develop along a stalled front near Florida will slowly move up the east coast, passing by our area tonight (Friday, 10/10) into Sunday. This system will bring gusty winds and increasing rain chances to the area, with significant marine, surf, and coastal impacts possible.
Details on Possible Impacts:
Marine: Gale force gusts and 9+ ft seas are possible along the coastal waters, causing hazardous navigation.
Coastal Flooding: Minor to perhaps moderate tidal inundation is likely along the entire coast, especially in South Carolina. Flooded roads/beach erosion possible.
Surf/Rips: Strong rip currents are likely at east-facing beaches (Village: East Beach on BHI) through Monday. High surf (breakers ≥ 6ft) is possible through Sunday, mainly for Georgetown County and north of Cape Fear.
Wind: Gusts 25-30 mph are possible each afternoon across the area. Gusts of 40+ mph possible this weekend, mainly for coastal areas north of Cape Fear. Some downed limbs are possible.
Rain: 1-3’ along the immediate coast with 2-4 more likely north of Cape Fear. Worst case for these areas is up to 6-7.” Mostly minor flooding of low-lying & poorly drained areas is possible.
Village Response
The water table remains below-average, and the Village will coordinate with the BHI Club to monitor lagoon levels. Public Services is making sure the Village’s ditches and swales are clear to improve rainwater runoff on roads. The Island Package Center and Post Office is expected to be operating at normal hours tomorrow if the ferries are operating.
Guidance for Islanders
Bald Head Island Transportation, Inc. posted the following service alert earlier today:
Due to forecasted weather conditions through the weekend, please be advised that service decisions will be based on all potential hazardous conditions, including extremely high tides and localized flooding, that may affect both vessel and shoreside operations. At this time, we plan to operate as normal through the weekend, but suspension of operations may be considered to ensure the safety of both staff and passengers if conditions worsen. Please continue to monitor the App and website for real-time updates regarding any schedule changes or service impacts. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
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. If you choose to move your cart to the Village medians/right of ways, please make sure all four wheels are off the asphalt so that our emergency vehicles can pass through. Please also promptly move your carts after conditions improve.
Wind gusts could propel outdoor items; please secure them.
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.
The first annual BHI Surf Fishing Tournament is expected to proceed; they have about 52 anglers signed up to participate. Details HERE.
The Village will be posting updates on its social channels and its Severe Weather Event webpage HERE.
Emergency Preparedness Resources
Village Severe Weather Event Webpage
Village Emergency Preparedness Webpage
Power Outage Info
ReadyNC
Ready.gov
Find us on social media HERE.