Ahead of the winter storm that will hit Ocracoke on Saturday, a number of island events and services have announced closings.
Hyde County has declared a State of Emergency.
Ocracoke Alive has postponed the events scheduled for Saturday and Sunday but Monday’s community discussion will go on at this point.
The Ocracoke Health Center and Pharmacy will be closed Monday and Tuesday. See info below.
Ferries to Ocracoke will be suspended on Saturday until the storm has passed.
“In order to ensure the safety of our passengers, crews, and vessels, these will be the last departures to and from Ocracoke Island until the winter storm has passed,” the Ferry Division said on Facebook. “Other ferry routes will also likely face schedule interruptions over the course of the weekend.”
The last departures from Swan Quarter and Cedar Island today (Jan. 30) will be at 4:30 p.m.
The last ferry from Ocracoke to Hatteras will be at midnight tonight and the last ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke will be at 4:30 a.m. Saturday (Jan. 31).
After the ferries stop, medical service will be limited to helicopters to fly patients off island, said Captain Joe Smith of the Hyde County Sheriff’s Department. “More than likely, this option will also stop when the winds pick up,” he said. “If you or someone you know is in need of medical services please seek that service now. It could be days before we can return to normal operations.
“Please be safe on the roads the next few days until DOT can clear them. If you don’t have to travel please stay home where it’s warm.”
The Ocracoke Convenience Site might be closed, depending on the weather.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Ahead of an impending winter storm, all National Park Service visitor facilities at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial will be closed this weekend and will remain closed through at least the morning of Feb. 2. The Oregon Inlet and Ocracoke campgrounds closed at noon today.
Park-specific operational updates will be provided on the Outer Banks Group’s severe weather webpage and social media accounts.
For current weather forecasts, visit the NWS Newport/Morehead City website.
The Observer will post more changes as needed.
