What can I expect in NHC from Hurricane Sandy? | News

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WECT) – Now a category one system, Hurricane Sandy has undergone some weakening as it emerges over the open ocean yet again north of the Bahamas near the Florida coastline. 

Friday will be one of the most unsettling days as the general direction of Sandy will be in a line straight for the Carolina coastline.  However, the system is likely to get caught up in an advancing cold front that should, in the next 24 hours, move Sandy back to the east – out over the open ocean.

The current National Hurricane Center forecast track, brings the system close enough to the coast to at minimum cause big waves, erosion issues and breezy coastal conditions. Heavy rain will likely be a concern too near the coast, although it is too early to forecast specific amounts.

Residents in New Hanover County should expect to see sustained winds between 15 and 30 mph this weekend with gusts over tropical storm force (40+ mph), especially at the coast. Winds will remain gusty for a prolonged period of time from late Friday night into Monday or longer. Power outages will be a concern.

The area could possibly see 1 to 3 inches of rain because of Hurricane Sandy. The county will also see very large waves, coastal erosion, and high surf and rip currents.

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