A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect until further notice for eastern North Carolina.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service in Newport said tropical storm force winds are expected, at 35-45 mph with gusts to 55 mph, early Saturday morning until Saturday afternoon.
Life-threatening storm surge possible, with the potential for 3-5 feet above ground somewhere within surge prone areas through Saturday afternoon.
Meteorologists say rough surf, coastal erosion, and life-threatening rip currents are possible.
NWS officials say 3-6 inches of rain is expected, with locally higher amounts possible.
There is also the possibility of tornadoes.
