Ocracoke entry restrictions in place in advance of Hurricane Isaias

Published 8:45 am Friday, July 31, 2020

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The Hyde County Board of Commissioners met Friday morning, July 31, 2020 to enact a State of Emergency in advance of Hurricane Isaias. It went into effect Friday July 31, 2020 at 8 a.m. Ocracoke entry will be restricted immediately. Only residents, homeowners, vendors and other essential personnel requested by federal, state or county officials will be allowed access until further notice, according to a Hyde County press release. An Ocracoke re-entry pass on the vehicle or adequate documentation will be required to be allowed on ferries inbound to Ocracoke beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, July 31, 2020.

The Ocracoke Control Group will meet again Friday morning to discuss any future protective measures needed. Decisions on evacuation orders will be released shortly after the completion of that meeting.

“Individuals should remain vigilant and review their household hurricane and evacuation plans to ensure they are prepared to take action if necessary,” stated the release. “If you do not have a hurricane plan, you can visit https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan for step-by-step for guidance on how to plan and prepare for them. It is strongly recommended that all Hyde County residents and property owners have their preparations completed as soon as possible.

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Even though Hurricane Isaias is at least a couple of days away from directly impacting our area, an enhanced risk of dangerous rip currents will exist this weekend. Large swells from Hurricane Isaias are expected to begin impacting the Eastern North Carolina coast over the weekend. Hyde County advises Ocracoke beachgoers to monitor the US National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City forecast and be mindful of the conditions when deciding to enter the water.

The Hyde County Emergency Services Department states it will continue to monitor the forecast for Hurricane Isaias and issue advisories as appropriate. For official storm information, monitor the National Hurricane Center website at https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.

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