From our news services
The National Weather Service out of Newport/Morehead City this afternoon, Aug. 18, issued a storm surge watch for the Outer Banks in advance of Hurricane Erin making its way up the Atlantic.
Impacts are expected to begin on Tuesday, with the most dangerous conditions peaking Wednesday into Thursday as Erin makes its closest approach to the region.
The “watch” is issued for the possibility of 3 feet or greater of inundation above normally dry ground, adjacent to low lying areas near the water, the NWS said in an afternoon press release.
Coastal flooding may begin as early as Tuesday afternoon, more than 24 hours before any tropical storm force winds arrive.
Flooding may likely be a long duration issue impacting Highway 12 on the Outer Banks throughout the week.
In addition, tropical storm watches have been issued.
A slight uptick in wind speeds, especially near the immediate coast, is expected.
“We continue to emphasize that even though the center of Erin is still forecast to remain well off our coast, IMPACTS will occur well away from the center,” the NWS said. “This will be an extremely large storm and we expect impacts especially along our immediate coastline.
“The highest impacts in our area remain over the Outer Banks, where significant coastal flooding is likely due to large breaking waves and significant wave run up.
“Highway 12 on the Outer Banks may be impassable for several days. The best chance for tropical storm force wind gusts would also be over the Outer Banks, and immediate adjacent waters.”
Dare County issued a mandatory evacuation for Hatteras Island.
The Hyde County Board of Commissioners enacted a State of Emergency for Ocracoke Island effective at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 17, due to the anticipated flooding impacts from Hurricane Erin and potential impacts to Hwy 12.
Additionally, a mandatory evacuation order has been issued for visitors starting at 8 p.m. on Sunday, August 17, and for residents starting at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19.
Evacuation procedures will remain in effect for all Ocracoke-bound ferries until Hyde County emergency officials lift their evacuation orders. No visitors will be allowed access to Ocracoke Island until the evacuation order is lifted.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) has closed beach accesses and facilities. Off-road vehicle (ORV) ramps were closed 9 pm on August 18 for the safety of ORV permittees before, during and after the impacts from Hurricane Erin.
To view the status of beach access ramps, visit http://go.nps.gov/beachaccess.
Grateful for these updates! We were sad to leave yesterday but hope to be back by the weekend. Hoping!
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