N.C. Highway 12 Reopens for Travel After Hurricane Erin

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News Summary

N.C. Highway 12 has reopened, allowing residents and property owners to return to Hatteras Island after Hurricane Erin’s chaos. A phased reentry process is in effect to ensure safety, with essential workers and residents granted early access. While the highway is being cleared, caution is advised due to potential water hazards. Red flags warn against swimming in the ocean, highlighting the risks of rip currents. Community resilience shines as residents prepare for recovery, amidst concerns of future coastal erosion and rising sea levels.

Welcome Back to Hatteras Island: N.C. Highway 12 Reopens Following Hurricane Erin!

The sun is shining a little brighter today in Hatteras Island as N.C. Highway 12 has reopened for travel! After the chaos brought by Hurricane Erin, which left many of us worrying about what we’d find when we return home, this is more than good news. At noon on Saturday, August 23, residents and property owners were finally able to set foot back on their cherished island.

Staged Reentry for Community Safety

In an effort to ensure everyone’s safety and security, Dare County has rolled out a staged reentry process for folks coming back. This method is manageable and helps get our community back on its feet. First up, permanent residents and essential workers have been granted access to assess the damage and begin the preparations needed for homes and businesses. You can picture it now—neighbors helping neighbors, and familiar faces returning to their favorite spots!

Watch Your Step—and Your Drive!

For those jumping back into their vehicles to head home, do take note: the road is still being cleared of sand and water, and standing water on the highway may contain saltwater that can harm your car. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) crews are out there working hard, so please be courteous! Slow down and keep a safe distance from those road workers helping to make our drive safe again.

Just a heads-up: there’s heavy rain forecasted for Sunday, August 24, so let’s prepare for possible flooding, especially in areas still reeling from the storm. If you were planning a trip to popular spots like Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, or Hatteras, double-check your reservations. Communication is key as some locations are still assessing damage.

The Road to Recovery: What’s Next?

The reentry follows a phased plan, so if you’re eager to visit, remember the specifics: On Monday, August 23, at noon, priority access will be granted to residents and essential personnel. Then, at 5 a.m. on Sunday, August 24, everyone else and visitors will be welcomed back. Every little step counts as we shake off the remnants of the storm!

Beach Safety: Not a Time for Waves

Even though many of us are itching to feel the sand between our toes once again, red flags are still flying high on all Dare County beaches, indicating treacherous surf conditions and dangerous rip currents. For now, entering the Atlantic Ocean is prohibited—unless you’re a surfer and follow certain regulations. Stay safe, friends!

Long-term Concerns on Our Beautiful Island

While we breathe a sigh of relief with the reopening of N.C. Highway 12, it’s important to keep our eyes on the future. Since 2020, our beloved Rodanthe has seen the collapse of 11 homes into the ocean, a stark reminder of the risks we face with chronic erosion. Experts are sounding the alarm about rising water levels and the continued risks to our coastal homes.

The observant eyes of the National Park Service are closely monitoring how development impacts our stunning barrier islands. With the innate unpredictability of our landscape due to ocean forces, it’s essential for all of us to stay informed.

Community Strength and Resilience

It’s safe to say that Hatteras Island is no stranger to adversity, and as we rally together, we continue to emphasize the strength and resilience that define our community. Following the recent evacuation of over 1,800 residents by ferry, it’s time to focus on rebuilding and recovering.

So gear up, Hatteras Island! The waves are calling for us, but let’s first ensure our homes are safe. Together we will overcome and restore this beautiful area to its sunny glory!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Hatteras Island Residents Return as N.C. Highway 12 Reopens
N.C. 12 Reopens Following Hurricane Erin Impact
Hurricane Erin Impacts North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Hatteras Island, North Carolina Faces Hurricane Erin’s Aftermath Ahead of Labor Day Weekend
Hurricane Erin Causes Significant Damage in Outer Banks
Severe Coastal Erosion Threatens Homes and Infrastructure in Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Leaves Significant Impact on North Carolina’s Outer Banks
N.C. Highway 12 Reopens After Hurricane Erin Cleanup
Hurricane Erin Causes Severe Flooding in Outer Banks
Hatteras Island Evacuation Orders Lifted After Hurricane Erin

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER

The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.