The nor'easter poses significant risks to coastal communities along the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast coasts. Mandatory evacuations are in effect for Hatteras Island, where conditions are expected to worsen. The Outer Banks are particularly at risk, with destructive waves and flooding already closing parts of North Carolina Highway 12. Water levels may rise more than two feet above normal during high tide in areas such as Chesapeake Bay and Ocean City, Maryland. Prolonged high winds and dangerous surf conditions also increase the risk of property damage and pose a threat to public safety.