Title: Tropical Storm Ophelia Expected to Impact East Coast, Including North Carolina and New Jersey
As the Atlantic Ocean faces a disturbance, residents along the East Coast are bracing themselves for the potential arrival of Tropical Storm Ophelia. The storm is anticipated to make landfall somewhere near the coast of North Carolina by Friday night, according to experts.
The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning, urging caution and preparedness for residents living from Cape Fear, North Carolina, to Fenwick Island, Delaware. This warning includes the regions of Albemarle and Pamlico sounds in North Carolina, the Tidal Potomac River in Maryland, and Chesapeake Bay in Maryland and Virginia.
The storm has the potential to bring about high winds, coastal flooding, and even life-threatening rip currents as it moves northward. New Jersey, in particular, could experience the impacts of the storm over the weekend.
Rainfall is also expected to be significant. North Carolina and Virginia are projected to receive between 3 to 5 inches of rainfall, with certain areas possibly receiving up to 7 inches. Meanwhile, the Mid-Atlantic and southern New England could expect 2 to 4 inches of rainfall, potentially leading to isolated urban and small stream flooding.
Furthermore, areas stretching from Surf City, North Carolina, to Chincoteague, Virginia, may witness flooding of 2 to 4 feet in the event that storm surges coincide with high tide. Lower Chesapeake Bay could see surges leading to 2 to 4 feet of flooding, while further north, the bay could experience 1 to 3 feet.
The increasing frequency and severity of flooding can be attributed to climate change, which has further exacerbated the impact of such storms. It is important for individuals living in these regions to remain vigilant and prepared as the storm approaches.
If Tropical Storm Ophelia reaches the expected strength, it will continue its trajectory along the coast of North Carolina before potentially affecting other mid-Atlantic states. As a precautionary measure, residents are being advised by North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and the state’s department of public safety to stay tuned to the latest weather forecasts and make necessary preparations.
North Carolina Emergency Management department stands ready to provide resources as needed, ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected.
In addition to the anticipated weather conditions, experts caution about the possibility of tornadoes, specifically in the mid-Atlantic region, on Friday and Saturday.
As Tropical Storm Ophelia inches closer, authorities are urging the public to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and remain prepared for potential tropical weather conditions impacting the East Coast.
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