Hurricane Joaquin heads toward Bermuda this weekend

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) – Hurricane Joaquin is moving toward Bermuda after battering the Bahamas with damaging winds and torrential rains.

The storm took a northward turn Friday, in response to an upper level trough, and is now moving slowly northeast. The storm is producing severe winds at 150 mph, and is a major Category 4 hurricane.

Click here for a list of closings and delays

The forecast computer models continue to have the track of the storm well east of the U.S. east coast this weekend.

Click here to visit the WWAY Hurricane Center

Even though Joaquin is not expected to directly affect southeast NC, heavy rainfall will impact the area through portions of the weekend. A flood watch will be in effect for all of our viewing area through Monday morning, but that could be extended even longer if forecast computer models are correct in keeping the threat for heavy rain over the region into Monday evening.  A frontal system is stalled off the coast and rich tropical moisture indirectly associated with Joaquin will stream into the region from the south.  It is likely many areas could pick up another 5 to 10 inches of rainfall through Monday. Stay tuned to the latest forecasts to stay informed of any forecast changes.

Meteorologist Helen Holt