As North Carolina battles the aftermath of Hurricane Erin, Governor Josh Stein made his way to Dare County yesterday to take in the scope of damage the storm left behind. In Frisco, the Governor met with local small business owners, hearing out their struggles as they face the stark reality of a peak season disrupted, according to a statement obtained by the North Carolina Office of the Governor's official press release. Stein, accompanied by a retinue of state and local officials, thanked the emergency responders for their dedicated efforts during this crisis.
According to the North Carolina Office of the Governor, Governor Stein noted the challenges, saying, “While Hurricane Erin remained offshore, flooding and high winds impacted roadways along the Outer Banks, and the closure of NC 12 means that small businesses have had their livelihoods cut off during peak season.” The governor emphasized his gratitude toward the emergency officials and first responders, underscoring their work to safeguard communities and expressing his confidence in their swift action to facilitate residents’ return. The State Emergency Response Team is preparing to downgrade to Enhanced Watch status, but will continue monitoring the situation closely.
Travel remains a significant concern for those in and around the Outer Banks, where dunes have taken a beating and roadways are challenged by the storm's overwash. The compromised infrastructure poses ongoing risks, as NC 12 has seen closures impacting stretches from the Northern Ferry Terminal to Ocracoke and between the Marc Basnight Bridge to Hatteras Village. The NCDOT is on the ground implementing floodwater pumping, sand and debris removal, and dune reconstruction to reopen these vital arteries as rapidly as possible.
The essential ferry service has resumed to Ocracoke from both Swan Quarter and Cedar Island following Hyde County's decision to lift its evacuation order. The Ferry Division will adhere to the county's reentry guidelines until all restrictions are lifted, with plans for regular summer schedules to be resumed tomorrow. In a move necessitated by the closure of NC 12, service on the Hatteras-Ocracoke route remains on hold.
Officials continue to provide updates on travel advisories and infrastructure repairs in the Outer Banks following Hurricane Erin. State and local authorities are working to restore roads, ferry service, and other essential services to affected communities. Governor Josh Stein recently visited the region to assess storm damage and meet with residents and emergency personnel involved in recovery efforts.
