The National Weather Service in Wilmington issued a Coastal Flood Advisory on Sept. 9 at 6:10 AM EDT for the lower Cape Fear River, including downtown Wilmington. The advisory runs through 11:00 PM EDT tonight, with the period of greatest concern from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM EDT.
Forecasters say up to one half foot of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. Areas specifically called out include the lower Cape Fear River and downtown Wilmington.
Expected impacts include minor coastal flooding on the lowest portions of USS North Carolina Road and Battleship Road. Water is also expected to begin spreading out of storm drains onto Water Street just south of Market Street in downtown Wilmington.
The NWS notes these assessments are based on average tide conditions; additional locations could see flooding if heavy rain, high winds or other factors occur.
Precautions advised by the National Weather Service:
- Allow extra travel time — some roads may be closed.
- Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth.
- Take necessary actions to protect flood-prone property.
Source: National Weather Service Wilmington NC (Coastal Flood Advisory, Inland New Hanover).