Developing Coastal Storm Threatens Florida, Carolinas, and Mid-Atlantic with Prolonged Flooding and Severe Beach Erosion

Coastal flooding, dangerous surf and beach erosion will threaten Florida’s Atlantic coast starting this weekend, as AccuWeather expert meteorologists warn that a developing coastal storm could bring days of flooding and damaging beach erosion to the Carolinas and Mid-Atlantic next week.

Strong onshore winds of 20-30 mph will threaten Florida’s Atlantic coast Saturday afternoon through Tuesday. Coastal hazards are expected from Jacksonville Beach and Daytona Beach south through Melbourne, Port St. Lucie, Boca Raton and Miami. Heavy rain could also cause localized flooding in South Florida this weekend.

“Coastal flooding can be incredibly disruptive, even when there isn’t a tropical storm or hurricane involved,” said AccuWeather expert meteorologist Elizabeth Danco. “From flooded streets and damaged beaches to disruptions for coastal businesses, the impacts can add up quickly. And with parts of the Mid-Atlantic still recovering from September’s costly nor’easter, another round of coastal flooding could compound the damage and prolong recovery efforts.”

Impacts to Linger into Next Week Along Outer Banks and Mid-Atlantic Coast

An area of low pressure is expected to take shape off of the Southeast and mid-Atlantic coasts and could remain nearly stationary through much of next week, with the potential to acquire tropical or subtropical characteristics.

What AccuWeather Expert Meteorologists Are Tracking:

• Outer banks and southeastern Virginia: Some of the most significant coastal flooding and beach erosion could occur along the North Carolina and southeastern Virginia coasts, including Nags Head and Virginia Beach
• Strong winds: Gusts near 40 mph could extend from southern New Jersey to Cape Lookout, North Carolina, with an AccuWeather Local StormMax™ of 70 mph
• Prolonged coastal flooding: Multiple high tide cycles could worsen flooding and erosion as the storm lingers offshore
• Travel disruptions: Ocean overwash could make portions of North Carolina Highway 12 impassable, while rough seas disrupt boating and marine traffic
• Rainfall risk: Periods of heavy rain are possible along the eastern Carolinas and coastal Mid-Atlantic if the storm remains close enough to shore

The potential for another coastal storm comes just weeks after September’s powerful nor’easter caused an estimated $10 billion to $13 billion in total damage and economic loss, according to AccuWeather’s preliminary estimate. The storm battered parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, with particularly significant coastal flooding and beach erosion along the New Jersey coastline.