Dare County Emergency Management this morning said a mandatory evacuation remains in effect and access into the county will remain restricted for the time being.

A hurricane warning and storm surge warning remain in effect for Dare County and a tornado watch has been extended through 5 p.m. today.

Some areas, particularly N.C. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island, will continue to experience ocean overwash. Wind and rain are expected to continue, Dare officials said.

Damage assessment teams will be working this morning to assess conditions and reentry guidelines will be established once conditions are deemed safe.

As soon as reentry procedures are set, the information will be distributed via the county’s emergency notification system. Sign up to receive the alerts via text, voice or email at www.darenc.com/emergencyalerts.  Or visit www.darenc.com for updated information.

Until then, only those with a Priority One Critical Personnel Pass issued by Dare County Emergency Management or a Critical Needs Pass issued by Currituck County Emergency Management are allowed access.

Hatteras Island

NC 12 on Hatteras Island remains closed due to ocean overwash and will  remain closed until both the road and its bridges can be cleared of debris, inspected for structural damage, and repaired as necessary. Inspections will take place as soon as conditions allow.

Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative reports that 97 customers on Hatteras Island are without power this morning.

The county expects to issue an update at noon today.