In a decisive move to protect residents and visitors, the Dare County government has issued a mandatory evacuation for all guests on Hatteras Island beginning at 8 p.m. Friday. The order covers the communities of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras Village, and comes alongside a county‑wide state of emergency.

Why the evacuation is necessary

The county’s emergency management team expects a powerful coastal storm to bring extended flooding and ocean overwash that could close North Carolina Highway 12. The highway is the only road linking Hatteras Island to the mainland, and a closure would isolate the island just as it did during the last major storm.

Storm timeline and hazards

Officials say conditions will worsen as winds and seas build through Saturday and into Sunday morning. The greatest risk of overwash is projected for high tide on Saturday around 1 p.m., when surge and wave action are likely to breach low‑lying sections of the island.

How to stay informed

Residents and visitors are urged to follow official updates and prepare for a swift departure. Dare County recommends signing up for emergency alerts by texting DareEmergencyAlerts to 77295. Additional preparedness information is available on the county’s website.

What to expect after the storm

After the evacuation, county crews will assess damage to Highway 12 and other critical infrastructure. The goal is to restore safe travel routes as quickly as possible while ensuring that any flooding or erosion is properly addressed.

Authorities stress that the evacuation order is a precautionary measure designed to keep families safe and to prevent the hardships that arise from being stranded without access to essential services. By acting early, Dare County hopes to minimize disruption and protect the island’s tight‑knit community.

Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.