State Officials Implement Emergency Measures for Hatteras Island Evacuation Following Nor’easter Damage
State transportation officials are implementing emergency measures, including expanded ferry services and a temporary lane on N.C. Highway 12, to assist travelers in leaving Hatteras Island following damage to the highway caused by a recent nor'easter. Access to Hatteras Island…
Greenville New Bern Washington, NC, September 29, 2026 — State transportation officials have initiated emergency protocols to manage the aftermath of a recent nor’easter that caused damage to N.C. Highway 12, impacting access to Hatteras Island. The measures are designed to facilitate the departure of travelers from the island.
In response to the highway damage, authorities are expanding ferry services to accommodate those needing to leave Hatteras Island. This initiative aims to provide an alternative transportation route as the primary road connection experiences disruptions. The specifics of the ferry service expansion, such as increased frequency or additional vessels, were not detailed in the provided information.
Additionally, a temporary lane is being established on N.C. Highway 12. This temporary measure is intended to help manage traffic flow and assist travelers in exiting the island. The extent of the highway damage and the timeline for repairs or the duration of the temporary lane are currently unspecified.
Access to Hatteras Island is currently restricted. Only essential personnel and residents are permitted to enter the island, a measure likely in place due to the ongoing conditions and infrastructure concerns following the storm. The duration of these access restrictions has not been provided.
The nor’easter is identified as the cause of the damage to the highway. Further details regarding the intensity of the storm or the precise nature of the damage sustained by N.C. Highway 12 were not made available. The agency or department overseeing these transportation efforts was not specified.
The situation remains dynamic as officials work to mitigate the effects of the storm and ensure the safety and mobility of individuals associated with Hatteras Island. Information regarding specific operational changes, timelines for restoration of full access, or the completion of temporary infrastructure solutions is pending.
The contractor responsible for the repair or temporary lane construction was not identified. Similarly, any information pertaining to inspection outcomes or code violations related to the highway damage is also not available.
Story summarized from the original created by Staff Report on coastalreview.org, see more information here.
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