The Outer Banks is bracing for another nor’easter expected to bring several days of hazardous coastal conditions beginning Saturday, Oct. 17, and continuing into next week.
The National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City office warns of ocean overwash, coastal flooding of 2 to 4 feet, wind gusts up to 55 mph and possible extended closures of N.C. Highway 12.
Because of that, Dare County at 6 p.m. Friday declared a state of emergency for Hatteras Island and ordered a mandatory evacuation at 8 p.m. for Hatteras Island visitors, including the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras.
No evacuation order has been issued for the residents of Ocracoke, Hatteras Island or for areas north of Oregon Inlet. Hatteras ferry officials confirmed that visitors leaving Ocracoke will be able to use the Hatteras ferry to drive through Hatteras Island until conditions prevent it.
In its Friday afternoon briefing, the NWS said the storm could become a prolonged event, with the greatest impacts expected Saturday night through early next week. Forecasters have heightened concerns about coastal flooding and ocean overwash, particularly along vulnerable sections of Hatteras and Ocracoke islands.
The most significant oceanside flooding is expected around Sunday and Monday’s high tides. Strong winds and elevated seas could continue to affect the coast beyond that period.
Forecasters cautioned that uncertainty remains about the storm’s strength, development and duration, including how long strong winds and large waves will persist into next week.
Ocracoke events canceled, relocated
The approaching storm has already prompted changes to local events. The Ocracoke Touch a Truck event at the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department has been canceled. A memorial service for Karen Lovejoy has been moved from the Island Commons to the Ocracoke Community Center.
Prepare for possible travel disruptions
Visitors planning to travel to or from Ocracoke and Hatteras Island should be prepared for potentially extended travel disruptions including suspensions of ferry service and closing NC 12 on Hatteras and Ocracoke Island.
Those with upcoming travel plans should consider adjusting their schedules and ensure they have essential supplies in case road closures temporarily prevent them from leaving the island. This includes having an adequate supply of prescription medications and considering upcoming medical appointments or other time-sensitive commitments.
Businesses are encouraged to arrange deliveries in advance and stock essential items in case road closures interrupt shipments.
Residents and visitors should limit travel as conditions worsen. Anyone who must travel should use extreme caution and remain alert for changing road conditions.
Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades closing a road.
With several days of hazardous conditions possible, residents and visitors should monitor National Weather Service updates and local emergency announcements and be prepared for changing conditions through early next week.
For the latest road conditions, visit DriveNC.gov.
