A Weaker, But Large and Powerful Irene Arrives in NC
Hurricane force winds with gust near 100 mph have been recorded along the NC coast, and large waves (over 20 ft) have been pounding the shorelines. Two piers (Sheraton and Bogue Inlet) are reported to be significantly damaged. Overwash is occurring across Ocracoke and likely other OBX spots. Storm surge will vary greatly across the complex NC coast, but high tide is occurring now (~7AM EST) at many sites. This coupled with surge has produced a 6+ ft storm tide in Beaufort (show above). Higher water levels are expected in the sounds and along the OBX.
