Hurricane Erin Triggers Evacuations, Dangerous Surf, and State of Emergency Across North Carolina Coast
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — As Hurricane Erin churns offshore in the Atlantic, North Carolina officials have issued a statewide state of emergency, with mandatory evacuations ordered for parts of the Outer Banks and surrounding coastal communities. Dangerous surf, beach erosion, and significant wind threats are already impacting the region.
Mandatory Evacuations and Road Closures
Dare County, Ocracoke Island, and Hatteras Island are under full mandatory evacuation orders, effective immediately for visitors and by 5 a.m. Wednesday for residents. The evacuations include both Dare County and Hyde County, where officials warn that NC Highway 12 is likely to become impassable due to flooding and overwash.
The State Emergency Response Team is monitoring coastal conditions closely, and officials have emphasized the storm’s potential to cause “life-threatening conditions” along the barrier islands.
Storm Surge and Dangerous Surf Conditions Expected
The National Weather Service has issued high surf and rip current warnings across the North Carolina coast, with wave heights expected to reach 8 to 12 feet in some areas. Along with rough surf, beach erosion and storm surge flooding are key concerns as Erin draws closer to the coast.
Hydrologists and meteorologists warn that even though Erin may not make direct landfall in North Carolina, its outer bands are capable of causing significant coastal damage. In some regions, officials are already seeing tide-related flooding during high tides, particularly in low-lying areas like Rodanthe and Buxton.
State of Emergency Declared Across North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper officially declared a state of emergency to allow for faster coordination between state and local agencies, activate emergency funds, and position response teams closer to impact zones. National Guard resources are also being prepped in case search and rescue efforts are needed.
“We want residents to take this storm seriously, even if it doesn’t make landfall,” Cooper said during a press conference. “The coastal hazards are real and potentially deadly.”
Closures and Travel Advisories
Several North Carolina ferry routes have suspended operations, particularly those servicing Ocracoke, as rough waters make navigation dangerous. Visitors are urged to postpone travel to the Outer Banks and surrounding islands.
Beach access points, visitor centers, and public parking areas across Cape Hatteras National Seashore have also been closed until further notice. State parks and local businesses in the evacuation zones are shutting down to comply with emergency directives.
Ripple Effects Along the East Coast
The storm’s reach is not limited to North Carolina. Parts of Virginia’s coast are also under storm alerts, and some East Coast beaches have been closed due to dangerous wave action. States from South Carolina to New Jersey are bracing for localized impacts from rough surf and potential inland rainfall.
Stay Informed and Safe
Residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to:
- Avoid beach and water activities
- Heed all evacuation orders
- Monitor local emergency management updates
- Secure loose outdoor items
- Have a disaster preparedness kit ready
North Carolina’s Division of Emergency Management recommends using the ReadyNC app for real-time alerts and shelter locations.
Have you or your family been affected by Hurricane Erin’s evacuations or flooding risks? Share your experience with the Saluda Standard-Sentinel community at saludastandard-sentinel.com. We want to hear from you.
