The following update was released by Dare County on Sunday afternoon, August 2.
As of 11 a.m. on Sunday morning, a Tropical Storm Watch became effective for Dare County, indicating that tropical storm conditions are possible through Tuesday. The local State of Emergency declaration remains in effect along with a mandatory evacuation for Hatteras Island, including the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras Village.
While many are disappointed that their vacation plans to Hatteras Island have been disrupted by Tropical Storm Isaias, it is important to understand that evacuation decisions are made in the interest of public health and safety.
The National Weather Service is forecasting up to 3 feet of storm surge inundation which can cause significant ocean overwash along Highway 12 on Hatteras Island, the only means of egress for the island. As roads become covered with sand and water, it becomes difficult, sometimes impossible, for law enforcement, fire and emergency medical service personnel to respond to calls for assistance in a timely manner. In recent years, storms with forecasts similar to Isaias have caused road closures and the loss of personal property. Safety of residents and visitors is our top priority.
While there are no evacuation orders in effect for the northern beaches (Hurricane Evacuation Zone B), including the towns of Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head and Manteo, it is important for residents and visitors to closely watch updated forecasts and be prepared for impacts starting late Monday and into Tuesday. Expect soundside flooding in low lying areas impacted by southerly winds. In addition, there will be an increased threat for tornadoes.
Monitor updated local weather forecasts from the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/mhx.
Ocean conditions are extremely dangerous and will remain so over the next few days. Everyone should stay out of the water, even experienced swimmers. For updated beach forecasts, visit weather.gov/beach/.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: All facilities at Cape Hatteras National Seashore are closed. To view the most up-to-date information and conditions for Cape Hatteras National Seashore, go to: https://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/operational-status-report.htm.
Wright Brothers National Memorial: Wright Brothers National Memorial will be closed starting Monday, August 3. The park will reopen after post-storm assessments are completed. To view the most up-to-date information and conditions for Wright Brothers National Memorial, go to: https://www.nps.gov/wrbr/planyourvisit/operational-status-report.htm.
Dare County offices north of Oregon Inlet will operate on their normal schedule on Monday; however, County offices on Hatteras Island will be closed.
Residential trash collection scheduled for Tuesday, August 4 in the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, and Avon will now occur during early morning hours on Monday, August 3. Please place your cans curbside tonight and then secure cans following collection.
Commercial trash collection for all areas of Hatteras Island remain on schedule for Monday, August 3.
The Dare County Board of Commissioners meeting scheduled for Monday, August 3 at 9:00 a.m. is cancelled. All business scheduled for August 3 will be included as part of the Board’s next meeting on Monday, August 17 at 5:00 p.m.
The next update will be issued no later than Monday, August 3 at 12:00 p.m.
