This article was updated Wed. 7:00 p.m.
Hyde County Government Offices To Remain Closed on October 6
Hyde County continues to brace for additional rain and flooding forecast for the next 24 hours. All ferry routes serving Ocracoke Island are currently suspended and visitor access to the island is still prohibited. Widespread flooding of local roads has created hazardous driving conditions through Hyde County. Drivers should exercise extreme caution and avoid water if possible.
All Hyde County government offices are closed today, including the Hyde County Health Department and all Hyde County solid waste convenience sites. The Board of Commissioners meeting has been rescheduled to 6 p.m. Wednesday, (Oct. 7.) Ocracoke School is closed today and tomorrow.
From AccuWeather: Coastal flood watch is in effect through late tonight. Water levels of 3 to 4 feet above normal will result in dune erosion and ocean overwash at times of high tide. Today’s high tides are 2:41 p.m. and 3:13 tomorrow morning. At 12:41 p.m., winds are at 21 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Temperature is 74 degrees.
Updates:
Ocracoke Island:
A rain gauge in Widgeon Woods registered 10.7 inches of rain so far this month, with one inch received so far today.
- NC Highway 12 on Ocracoke is still closed between the Pony Pens and the Hatteras ferry terminal. Beach erosion resulting in another dune breach last night of 100-feet in length.
- Coastal Gas is on Ocracoke to secure gas tanks if need be. Report any floating natural gas tanks to Coastal Gas: 252-491-2625.
An Oyster Creek canal today around noon. Photo by Ann Warner.
Mainland Hyde County:
- The National Guard and a swift water rescue team are in place in Swan Quarter to help with rescues.
- An emergency shelter with showers and cots is open at O.A. Peay School, 1430 Main Street, Swan Quarter.
- While NC Highway 264 is clear, many local roads are flooded with deep water. Do not hesitate to request evacuation assistance. Call 911 or the Hyde County Sheriff’s office for assistance.
Next Hyde County advisory scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Tuesday (Oct. 6).
As for the National Park Service Cape Hatteras National Seashore, visitor facilities and services (including campgrounds) and Silver Lake Marina remain closed today.
All NPS Off-Road Vehicles ramps in the Seashore remain closed until further notice. Ramps have significant flooding and standing water making many areas impassable. High tides and beach erosion has left very little beach available for beach driving. ORV ramps and routes will be evaluated frequently and will open as soon as possible.
The Ocracoke and Buxton Off-Road Vehicle Permit offices remain closed until further notice.