Hurricane (Typhoon) — Onslow, North Carolina

2004-08-14 · Onslow, North Carolina

Wider weather episode

Tropical Storm Charley moved northeast across the Coastal Plains of Eastern North Carolina during the afternoon hours on August 14th. Onslow county received the most damage, with estimates over 5 million dollars, as winds gusted to near hurricane force toppling trees and power lines with structural damage to homes and businesses. Winds gusted from 60-70 mph across Inland areas near the center of the storm resulting in wind damage to structures, and damage to crops reaching into the millions. Winds gusted from 40 to 50 mph across locations across Eastern North Carolina with minor wind damage reported. Storm surge values were highest along the Onslow County coastline where a 2 to 3 foot surge was estimated, and 8 foot waves caused minor beach erosion along the south facing beaches. Water levels rose up to 2 feet across the lower reaches of the Neuse and the Pamlico Rivers, and across the Outer Banks. Storm total rainfall, estimated between 4 to 6 inches, occurred across a large part of the area resulting in freshwater flooding in 7 counties across the Coastal Plains. Five weak tornadoes were reported across the area associated with Charley with damage reported. The most significant damage related to a tornado occurred along the Outer Banks in Nags Head.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5421514. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.