The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a tornado warning for Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, and nearby areas in North Carolina after a large waterspout was observed offshore.
“The waterspout circulation offshore has been oscillating back and forth between closer to the coast, and staying offshore. Everybody along the coast between Ocean Isle Beach and Holden Beach needs to take cover NOW!” the NWS said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
A WRAL forecaster added:
“A confirmed waterspout near Ocean Isle Beach could move ashore. The TORNADO WARNING (inside the red/purple polygon) goes until 6:15 PM 8/14/25.”
Sped up video of waterspout passing just offshore from the east end of Ocean Isle Beach about 15 minutes ago. Webcam video from Surfchex. #NCwx pic.twitter.com/fPWs93j0g1
— Andrew Elswick (@AndrewElswickWX) August 14, 2025
Confirmed Waterspout Moving Toward Land
The NWS in Wilmington issued the Tornado Warning at 5:39 PM EDT on Thursday for south-central Brunswick County, warning of an immediate threat as a confirmed waterspout moves northeast toward land.
The warning, active until 6:15 PM EDT, covers areas including Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, and Varnamtown, where the waterspout may transition into a tornado upon reaching shore.
The waterspout is moving at 20 mph and poses risks of flying debris, damage to mobile homes, roofs, windows, vehicles, and trees.
Safety Measures for Residents
The NWS urges residents to “TAKE COVER NOW!”, recommending basements or interior rooms on the lowest floor of sturdy buildings. Those outdoors, in mobile homes, or vehicles should seek the nearest substantial shelter.
The Emergency Alert System has been activated to broadcast the warning. The public is encouraged to report any hail, wind damage, downed trees, or large limbs by calling the Wilmington office at 1-800-697-3901.
Tornado Path and Forecast
The tornado’s projected path includes Holden Beach by 5:45 PM EDT, with coordinates tracked at 33.91°N, 78.34°W, moving at 16 knots on a 243-degree bearing. No significant hail is expected.
This warning follows a similar alert earlier this week for the same region, reflecting ongoing severe weather patterns along the coast.
