No Additional Protective Measures Ordered at This Time; Mandatory Evacuation for Hatteras Island Remains in Effect
Local officials met Sunday morning to receive an update from the National Weather Service. Based on the current forecast, no additional protective measures are being implemented at this time. While an evacuation order is not anticipated, it is imperative for everyone to keep their guard up and pay close attention to updated weather forecasts from the National Weather Service because the Outer Banks will experience impacts.
Dare County remains under a State of Emergency with mandatory evacuation orders in effect for Hatteras Island (Hurricane Evacuation Zone A), including the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras Village. These orders will remain in place until after the storm passes due to the vulnerability of Highway 12 and the fact that it is the only road that provides access to and from the island. Some vulnerable spots along Highway 12 on Hatteras Island are already experiencing minor ocean overwash during periods of high tide.
As the storm tracks west of the Outer Banks and winds increase late Monday, storm surge inundation is expected to produce ocean overwash and soundside flooding of 1 to 2 feet above normally dry ground, and up to 3 feet in some areas.
Soundside Flooding
Water levels along the sound are already high in many places, particularly from Manteo to Kitty Hawk. Expect soundside flooding in low lying areas, at spots that are impacted by southerly winds. Make preparations for up to 3 feet of water above the ground in these areas. Real time soundside water levels can be observed at https://fiman.nc.gov/.
Ocean overwash
As already mentioned, ocean overwash is likely along Highway 12 on Hatteras Island and driving conditions will become hazardous in some areas. Conditions may impact the ability of law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical service personnel to reach those needing emergency assistance in a timely manner. Overwash will also flood normally dry areas where the dune system is vulnerable. This could lead to damage to parked vehicles and other property.
There is a high risk of rip currents and hazardous ocean conditions at all beaches over the next few days and conditions are dangerous for even the most experienced swimmers. Beachgoers are advised to stay out of the water and obey red flag warnings on the northern beaches. As part of the current state of emergency declaration that is in place, restrictions on ocean swimming remain in effect for Hatteras Island.
There is an increased threat for tornadoes in our area beginning late Monday and into Tuesday. Again, pay close attention to weather forecasts. Keep your cell phone charged and make sure it is set to receive emergency alerts. It is also a good idea to listen to NOAA Weather Radio to keep informed.
For updated information from Dare County Emergency Management and the Towns of Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head Manteo, and the National Park Service, visit darenc.com/isaias.
For preparedness tips and information on hurricane evacuation zones, visit www.readync.org.
Subscribe to receive emergency alerts via text, email or phone directly from Dare County Emergency Management at www.DareNC.com/alerts
Follow @DareCountyEM on Twitter.
Monitor updated local weather forecasts from the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/mhx.
The next update will be issued no later than Sunday, August 2 at 5:00 p.m.
Content provided by Dare County Emergency Management.