Meteorologists Explain How Subtropical Storms Differ From Nor'easters

The storm battering North Carolina's Outer Banks could develop into a tropical or subtropical system, but meteorologists say the classification would make little difference to people facing its immediate effects. According to WRAL's meteorological report published October 20, 2026, the system had a 30% to 40% chance of undergoing that transition as strong winds, high surf and coastal overwash continued. The distinction between a nor'easter and a subtropical storm primarily concerns how the system forms and the structure at its center.

Both can produce similar conditions along the coast, including flooding, powerful winds and hazardous ocean conditions. WRAL explained that a subtropical storm draws energy from both cold air associated with the jet stream and warm ocean waters. This combination gives the system characteristics of both tropical and extratropical storms.

An extratropical system typically develops along a cold front and has a cold core. By contrast, a tropical system forms independently and draws its energy from warm ocean waters.

Subtropical systems occupy a middle ground because they draw on both atmospheric and oceanic energy sources. According to WRAL, winds associated with a dip in the jet stream may be insufficient to displace the storm's center, allowing it to develop characteristics associated with a warm-core system. The meteorological classification therefore depends on the storm's origin and internal structure rather than a dramatic change in the conditions experienced at ground level. The Outer Banks system was already producing strong winds, high surf and coastal overwash while forecasters assessed its potential development.

If the system becomes a tropical or subtropical storm, it will receive a name and come under monitoring by the National Hurricane Center. WRAL identified Josephine as the next name on the list.