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October 16, 2026
Hyde County Emergency Management is issuing an urgent warning to all residents, property owners, and visitors regarding a powerful, long-duration nor’easter expected to impact the Outer Banks beginning Saturday, October 17, and lasting through early to mid-next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, confidence is high that this will be an extended event bringing severe coastal impacts, strong winds, and dangerous seas.
URGENT ADVISORY: Saturday morning may be your LAST OPPORTUNITY to safely depart Ocracoke.
If you are currently on Ocracoke Island and do not leave by Saturday afternoon, it is very likely you will become stranded on the island until early to mid-next week (Tuesday or Wednesday). Visitors are strongly discouraged from traveling to Ocracoke Island starting Saturday.
KEY STORM IMPACTS & EXPECTED CONDITIONS
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NC 12 & Coastal Flooding: Ocean overwash is expected to inundate vulnerable sections of N.C. Highway 12 on both Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands. Inundation levels of 2 to 4 feet above ground level are forecast for oceanside areas, with minor to moderate soundside flooding possible along Pamlico Sound.
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High Winds: A High Wind Watch has been issued. Sustained north-to-northeast winds with gusts between 45 to 55 mph are expected from Saturday night through at least Tuesday, making travel hazardous and creating potential power outages.
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Ferry Suspensions: NCDOT Ferry Division operations across all routes (Hatteras, Swan Quarter, and Cedar Island) are expected to face widespread suspensions beginning Saturday evening due to severe winds and wave heights reaching 15–20 feet offshore and 5–7 feet in the Pamlico Sound. Sound ferries will not run with sustained winds over 30-35 mph.
RESTRICTED EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS)
Please be advised that if N.C. Highway 12 becomes impassable and ferry service is suspended, Hyde County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) on Ocracoke Island will face severe operational limitations.
While ground transport may be cut off, air-lift operations cannot be guaranteed and will likely be grounded. The forecast predicts sustained wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph, which exceed the safe operating limits for most medical evacuation helicopters. Therefore, air-lift capabilities will likely be unavailable during peak storm activity.
If you have underlying medical conditions or needs that may require emergency services, DO NOT remain on or travel to Ocracoke Island.
STANDARD SAFETY & PREPAREDNESS REMINDERS
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Stock Supplies: Anyone remaining on the island must ensure they have adequate food, fresh water, battery-powered lighting, and at least a full week's supply of prescription medications.
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Never Drive Through Overwash: Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads or around NCDOT barricades. Ocean water contains deep sand, debris, and salt that can stall or destroy vehicles and endanger lives.
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Secure Property: Secure all outdoor items, trash cans, and loose materials ahead of rising winds on Saturday afternoon.
Stay Informed
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