As Hurricane Erin makes its approach toward the North Carolina coastline, state emergency management officials are gearing up for potential impacts, particularly in the Outer Banks region. According to a press release from ReadyNC, the State Emergency Response Team has already initiated coordination calls with both state and local agencies to prepare responses to the hurricane's possible effects and is in continuous communication with the National Hurricane Center.
Will Ray, the North Carolina Emergency Management Director, stated, "The State Emergency Response Team is poised and ready to respond to any needs from our local communities this week." According to findings on ReadyNC, Ray urged residents and visitors in the area to heed the instructions of local emergency management officials, and mentioned plans to pre-position necessary resources for rapid deployment if required.
Forecasts suggest dangerous conditions may arise, including tropical storm force winds, high surf with waves reaching 15-20 feet, roadway and neighborhood flooding, and powerful rip currents. Local authorities in Dare and Hyde County have issued evacuation orders to mitigate risks. Hyde County announced a local State of Emergency for Ocracoke Island, mandating a visitor evacuation starting Sunday night and a resident evacuation from Tuesday morning, as per the official statement.
Dare County is also under a State of Emergency, with mandatory evacuations in place for Hatteras Island communities. Both counties have stressed the importance of residents being informed through reliable sources such as the National Weather Service and local media. Residents are advised against driving through flood waters, a warning underscored by the oft-repeated safety slogan, "Turn around! Don’t Drown!" For the most current road conditions, the announcement suggests visiting DriveNC.Gov. Information on evacuation zones can be found by visiting ReadyNC.Gov/Erin.
