Hurricane Hermine Causes Mandatory Evacuation For Ocracoke

The approaching Hurricane Hermine has caused the NCDOT to order a mandatory evacuation for non-residents on Ocracoke Island located at the North Carolina Outer Banks.

The NCDOT has just released a mandatory evacuation for visitors on Ocracoke Island due to the approaching Hurricane Hermine. This applies to non-residents only. The NCDOT is concerned about the possibility of  flooding at the ferry terminal docking locations at both ends of the island. Priority boarding has been suspended for all vessels leaving Ocracoke meaning it is first come first serve boarding. All tolls have been waived by the ferry division. Ferry Division Director Ed Goodwin stated in the news release “We encourage all visitors on the island to calmly evacuate Ocracoke as soon as possible.”

By the time Hurricane Hermine reaches North Carolina late Friday or in the early hours of Saturday it will be more than likely a Tropical Storm. Buth there is still the potential the storm will bring heavy rains and gusty winds with the possibility of flooding at the Outer Banks.

If high winds and waves become too much the ferry system will suspend service to the Outer Banks due to safety factors. Although Hermine will more than likely be a Tropical Storm by the time it passes over Eastern North Carolina there is still the chance of flooding and other hazardous conditions.

If you are traveling in the area please pay attention to the news and local weather. Watches and warnings have already been posted along the NC coast. Winds, heavy rain and rough surf can cause ocean and soundside flooding as well as problems with flooding and standing water. Traveling may be hazardous. Highway 12 along the Outer Banks is subject to ocean overwash, sound water flooding, sand and standing water associated with hurricanes and tropical storms. Heed all warning and stay alert to the news and weather conditions for the next 48 hours.

Many have already cancelled reservations and plans to travel to the NC Outer Banks and beaches for the Labor Day weekend. Know before you go.

Location of Ocracoke Island