This from Dare County Emergency Management:
The Dare County Control Group met this morning to review the latest information from the National Weather Service. Confidence has increased significantly with the forecast track of Hurricane Joaquin and it is very likely that the storm will move northeast, well away from the North Carolina coast. NO evacuation orders for Dare County are anticipated.
Regardless of Hurricane Joaquin moving well off the coast, a flood watch, coastal flood advisory AND high surf advisory are in effect. Heavy rain associated with an upper low and frontal system will bring an additional 2 to 3 inches of rain through the weekend. Given the already saturated ground, flooding is expected in some low lying areas and roadways. Motorists are advised to proceed with caution.
Anticipated wind impacts have lessened and while no tropical force winds are expected, the area will experience sustained winds of 25 to 30 mph Sunday evening into Monday. Minor coastal flooding with high surf and ocean swells will occur. The threat of ocean overwash has diminished but cannot be ruled out in areas that are highly vulnerable. There is the possibility of some soundside flooding.
A high threat of rip currents remains in effect and ocean swimming conditions are hazardous. Please stay out of the ocean.