National Seashore Updates for the Week of July 21

The Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CHNS) announced several recent updates and news items related to recreational activities, closures or cancellations, and seashore conditions on Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands.

News items and events related to the National Seashore for the week of July 21 include the following:

Seashore Updates

• Cape Hatteras National Seashore experienced the second-highest level of June visitation since the establishment of the Seashore in 1953. Last month’s visitation is an increase of almost 4% over last June.
• Park Rangers will be on the Ocracoke passenger ferry providing park information and an interpretive program to ferry riders on Wednesdays and Saturdays on the 9:30 a.m. Hatteras departure and the 2:30 p.m. Ocracoke departure. Once on Ocracoke Island, the rangers will provide informal interpretive programs at the visitor center and Ocracoke Lighthouse until they need to depart for the 2:30 p.m. ferry.
• 160 sea turtles have nested on seashore beaches this season, so far. Be on the lookout for nesting female sea turtles and report any sightings to our hotline at 252-216-6892. To learn about upcoming sea turtle nest excavations, call 252-475-9629.
• Looking for the status of Cape Hatteras National Seashore facilities and services? Visit www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/operational-status-report.htm. The Operational Status Report provides the most up-to-date information and conditions for Cape Hatteras.
• It is important for all beach visitors to check the rip current forecast before heading to the beach. Go to: http://www.weather.gov/beach/mhx. Visitors can also sign up for ocean safety text messages by texting ‘Join OBXBeachConditions’ to 30890. Text ‘STOP’ to 30890 when you no longer want to receive updates.
• Lifeguards are on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at Coquina Beach, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Beach, Frisco Beach, and Ocracoke Beach.
• Visitors should practice the Three W’s – Wear. Wait. Wash. Wear a cloth face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained. Wait 6 feet apart. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.