Greenville New Bern Washington, NC, September 29, 2026 —

Dare County has declared a state of emergency for Hatteras Island in response to significant impacts from a recent severe nor’easter. The declaration imposes restrictions on access, limiting entry for non-residents and visitors to the island.

The storm’s severity has led to substantial damage, particularly affecting transportation routes. N.C. Highway 12, a critical roadway serving Pea Island, has been closed. The extent and specific nature of the storm damage to N.C. Highway 12 were not detailed.

In light of the Highway 12 closure, an emergency ferry service has been established. This service is currently designated for departures only, indicating a priority for those needing to leave the island. Details regarding the operational capacity or schedule of this emergency ferry were not provided.

While access for non-residents and tourists is restricted, the state of emergency allows for residents and essential personnel to still enter Hatteras Island. However, the specific conditions or criteria that define essential personnel and the requirements for entry were not detailed in the announcement.

The imposition of a state of emergency typically grants local authorities broader powers to manage resources and ensure public safety during and after a significant event. The duration of these restrictions and the timeline for assessing and repairing damaged infrastructure, such as N.C. Highway 12, have not been specified. Information regarding the full impact of the nor’easter on Hatteras Island, including potential infrastructure assessments or recovery efforts, is pending further updates.


Story summarized from the original created by Staff Report on coastalreview.org, see more information here.

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