Outer Banks, North Carolina, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Erin left a path of destruction in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, impacting homes and infrastructure. The storm’s surge led to road closures, especially on Highway 12, as officials work to manage flooding and restore services. A staged reentry process is in effect for residents returning from evacuation, and safety advisories are in place regarding water services. Despite maintenance efforts, concerns are growing over the impact of severe storms on the region’s infrastructure.
Kitty Hawk, North Carolina – Hurricane Erin caused significant damage across North Carolina’s Outer Banks on August 25, 2025. The storm generated destructive waves reaching homes and hotels, while a storm surge of three to four feet inundated streets and created hazardous conditions for residents. In response to the flooding, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has closed a section of Highway 12 between Oregon Inlet and Hatteras Village as crews work to clear the roadway.
The NCDOT emphasized that caution is essential when traveling through the affected areas, given the ongoing cleanup efforts to remove sand and water accumulation. A staged reentry process has been implemented for Dare County residents following mandatory evacuation orders issued during Hurricane Erin. Priority 2 reentry permits are being granted to permanent residents and essential business personnel on Hatteras Island. Non-resident property owners and employees of non-critical businesses fall under Priority 3, while the general public and tourists will be classified as Priority 4 regarding reentry permissions.
As of Monday following the storm, Highway 12 on the north end of Ocracoke Island is scheduled to open at 5 PM, coinciding with the resumption of vehicle ferry services between Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island. The highway had previously closed on August 20 due to severe overwash, which left sections of the road submerged under deep water and sand.
Dare County officials announced that local facilities will return to normal operations starting Monday, including the resumption of waste services. However, water main breaks and service disruptions occurred in areas south of Highway 12, leading to a boil water advisory for affected customers. Emergency notifications were issued to keep residents informed, along with bottled water distribution at designated locations to address the utility issues.
In the last decade, NCDOT reported spending over $70 million on maintenance for Highway 12, not counting beach nourishment projects. Officials are increasingly concerned about the rising frequency of severe storms, which impact transportation and necessitate maintaining the island’s elevation. Despite ongoing maintenance, experts have warned that current protective strategies for Highway 12 may inadvertently worsen the erosion and flooding problems.
Post-Hurricane Erin, portions of Highway 12 were declared unsafe by NCDOT, leading to continued cleanup efforts amid the potential for heavy rain. Additional ocean overwash has been reported in areas such as Buxton and Ocracoke during high tides following the storm. However, ferry services between Cedar Island, Swan Quarter, and Ocracoke remain operational for local residents and property owners despite the highway closures.
The deliberate reentry process is intended to facilitate the return of locals and property owners to prepare for the upcoming tourist season. Hatteras Island serves as the only access route connecting Ocracoke Island to the mainland, highlighting the critical need for continued upkeep of the highway for local residents and tourism.
FAQ
What areas were affected by Hurricane Erin?
North Carolina’s Outer Banks, particularly homes and hotels along the coast, were significantly impacted.
Why was Highway 12 closed?
A section of Highway 12 was closed due to flooding caused by a storm surge and severe overwash.
When is Highway 12 expected to reopen?
Highway 12 on the north end of Ocracoke Island is scheduled to reopen at 5 PM on a Monday following the storm.
What reentry process is in place for residents?
A staged reentry process categorizes residents and property owners based on priority levels, with permanent residents receiving the highest priority.
What precautions are being taken regarding water service?
A boil water advisory has been issued for areas south of Highway 12 affected by water main breaks.
Key Features of Hurricane Erin’s Impact
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Surge Height | 3 to 4 feet |
| Highway 12 Status | Closed between Oregon Inlet and Hatteras Village; reopening on a specific date |
| Reentry Process | Staged based on priority; non-residents categorized under lower priority |
| Water Service Advisories | Boil water advisory in effect for southern regions |
| Maintenance Funding | Over $70 million spent on Highway 12 maintenance from 2012 to 2022 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Celebrated Chef Dominick Lee: A Culinary Journey Through Hurricane Katrina
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
Hurricane Erin Threatens Outer Banks with Evacuations
Hurricane Erin Causes Severe Damage in Rodanthe
N.C. Highway 12 Reopens Following Hurricane Erin
Precautionary Swimming Advisory Issued for Outer Banks
Additional Resources
- WRAL: NC Highway 12 Reopens Hatteras Post Hurricane Erin
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Erin
- ABC11: Live Updates on Hurricane Erin
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin 2025
- CBS17: Hurricane Erin Buries Outer Banks Motel
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
- Spectrum News: Buxton Business Clean Up After Erin
- Google News: Hurricane Erin Outer Banks
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.
