Dare County, North Carolina, August 20, 2025
News Summary
As Hurricane Erin approaches, Dare and Hyde Counties have declared a state of emergency, issuing mandatory evacuations for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. Despite weakening from Category 5, the storm poses threats of heavy rainfall, significant flooding, and dangerous surf conditions. Evacuations for visitors began on August 18, and residents must follow suit. High tides may coincide with peak flooding, raising serious safety concerns. The North Carolina Ferry System is increasing services to assist evacuees while warnings for life-threatening rip currents and storm surges remain in effect.
Dare County, North Carolina — As Hurricane Erin approaches the coast, Dare County and Hyde County have declared a state of emergency and issued mandatory evacuation orders for vulnerable areas, including Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island. Although Hurricane Erin reached Category 5 status, it has since weakened but is still expected to cause significant rainfall, flooding, and dangerous surf conditions along the Outer Banks and Crystal Coast.
Mandatory evacuations for Hatteras Island started for visitors at 10:00 PM on August 18, and residents were urged to evacuate by 8:00 AM on August 19. Areas affected include Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras. The local authorities underscored the necessity for immediate evacuation, emphasizing that the time to leave is now.
A coastal flood watch is currently in effect, anticipating flooding and overwash between August 19 and August 21. Emergency personnel are closely monitoring the situation, as significant storm surges could leave parts of North Carolina Highway 12 impassable for several days. The National Weather Service has also issued a tropical storm warning for the Outer Banks, highlighting life-threatening surf and rip currents.
High tides are projected to coincide with peak flooding around 5:19 PM on August 19, raising concerns about swift inundation in exposed areas. Those who choose to remain in the affected areas are advised to stock essential supplies—food, water, and medications—as access may soon be restricted.
Beach closures have been enacted across Dare County, with double red flags posted along the beaches, officially prohibiting swimming due to dangerous conditions. Despite stern warnings, several surfers have been seen entering the water, prompting concern from officials. Authorities report that over 1,000 individuals have already evacuated from the Outer Banks ahead of the storm.
Impactful rip currents are expected along the entirety of the North Carolina coast, with wave heights estimated to reach between 15 and 20 feet. Consequently, emergency response times may slow significantly if Highway 12 becomes inundated, which poses threats to resident safety for those who elect to stay behind. Residents are encouraged to evacuate north via U.S. 64 to alleviate traffic congestion.
In response to the escalating situation, the North Carolina Ferry System has ramped up ferry services to assist evacuees from Ocracoke, Hatteras, and Cedar Islands. Ocracoke Island had already been placed under an evacuation order on August 17, and officials continue to assess the potential life and property risks due to impending coastal flooding.
Local officials recognize the gravity of the situation and continue to implore residents and visitors to prioritize their safety by following evacuation orders promptly.
Key Points
- Hurricane Erin is expected to impact Dare County, even without making landfall.
- State of emergency declared in Dare and Hyde Counties.
- Mandatory evacuation orders in effect for Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island.
- Coastal flood watch and tropical storm warnings issued.
- Life-threatening rip currents and significant storm surges forecasted.
FAQ
- What areas are under mandatory evacuation orders?
- Hatteras Island (Zone A) and Ocracoke Island are under mandatory evacuation orders.
- When did the evacuations begin?
- Visiting evacuations for Hatteras Island started at 10:00 PM on August 18, while resident evacuations commenced at 8:00 AM on August 19.
- What services are being provided for evacuees?
- The North Carolina Ferry System has increased ferry services to aid those leaving Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands.
- What safety measures are in place for those remaining?
- Residents who choose to stay are advised to stock up on food, water, and necessary medications, and beach access has been restricted.
- What is the expected impact of Hurricane Erin?
- Authorities expect significant flooding, rip currents, and dangerous surf conditions along the shores.
Summary of Situation
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hurricane Status | Initially Category 5, currently weakening |
| Evacuation Zones | Hatteras Island (Zone A), Ocracoke Island |
| Evacuation Timing | Visitors: from Aug 18, Residents: from Aug 19 |
| Flood Watch Duration | Aug 19 – Aug 21 |
| Storm Surges | Expected to inundate portions of Highway 12 |
| Warning Details | Tropical storm warnings beset Outer Banks |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Forces Mandatory Evacuations in North Carolina
Hurricane Erin Threatens North Carolina with Mandatory Evacuations
Hurricane Erin Approaches North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Hits North Carolina as a Category 2 Storm
Maryland Beaches Closed Due to Hurricane Erin’s Threats
Hurricane Erin Approaches North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Forces Evacuations in Outer Banks
Hurricane Erin Forces Evacuations in Outer Banks, NC
Outer Banks, North Carolina Braces for Hurricane Erin
Hurricane Erin Triggers Evacuations and Warnings Along U.S. East Coast
Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Erin
- WRAL
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin
- WAVY
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Erin
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.
