Huge Waves Impacting the Coast

A storm system along the East Coast, partially what remains of HurricaneIda, continues to produce very large waves from the New Jersey shore throughthe Outer Banks of North Carolina. Aiding in the development of the batteringwaves is a massive area of high pressure over New England -- keeping tranquilconditions over that region while creating havoc farther south with strongwinds and a persistent easterly fetch.Wave heights will continue to exceed 15 feet through Friday along and off theshore of the Atlantic beaches facing east and northeast. Furthermore, coastalflooding and beach erosion will be of major concern for residents along theshore. The largest waves and greatest coastal flooding are expected on theAtlantic coast of the Delmarva Peninsula Thursday night with tides running 3 to5 feet above normal. The Jersey Shore will experience their worst conditions byearly Friday.

Again, this is a very dangerous situation for anyone planning to venture nearor into the water over the next few days. Very rough surf and deadly ripcurrents are expected all the way to New England. Even large boats will be indanger and will have a difficult time navigating the large waves fartheroffshore.