An unusual ocean storm has prompted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ocean Prediction Center to issue a hurricane-force wind warning for seas offshore of North Carolina. This alert is essential for cruise ships operating in the region.
On Friday morning, NOAA's Ocean Prediction Center warned of hazardous marine conditions extending approximately 115 to 290 miles offshore from Hatteras Canyon to Cape Fear, North Carolina. While winter storms are typical, this storm's rapid intensification to wind speeds of around 75 mph—equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane—makes it particularly noteworthy.
Unlike tropical systems, this storm is not classified by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and is instead moving southeast toward Bermuda, with expectations to shift northward. The strong winds could generate wave heights reaching up to 30 feet, presenting challenges for vessels in the area.
As cruise ships continue operations from Baltimore and New York to the Bahamas, NOAA’s forecasts are crucial for ensuring safety in these waters. The storm is expected to weaken as it approaches Bermuda on Saturday morning.