Visitors ordered to evacuate Hatteras Island ahead of coastal nor'easter

A mandatory evacuation order for visitors on Hatteras Island took effect at 8 p.m. Friday, according to ABC11 WTVD. The evacuation was issued amid a state of emergency due to a developing coastal nor'easter forecasted to bring flooding, ocean overwash, and potential closures of N.C. Highway 12.

The evacuation applies only to visitors, not residents, and covers the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras Village. Officials expect prolonged coastal flooding and repeated ocean overwash that could close N.C. 12 for an extended period, cutting off access to the island.

The National Weather Service forecast indicates conditions will worsen Saturday and into Sunday morning, with the greatest potential for ocean overwash around high tides beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday. Visitors are urged to leave before road access is compromised and to take all personal belongings.

Those with upcoming reservations on Hatteras Island are advised to contact their accommodations providers to adjust plans and avoid traveling to the island while the evacuation is in effect. Dare County Emergency Management will continue monitoring the storm and provide updates, including reentry information.

For the latest road conditions, travelers can check the DriveNC website or the NCDOT N.C. 12 Facebook page, as reported by ABC11 WTVD.