Governor Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency in North Carolina as Hurricane Erin approaches the coast. The declaration is aimed at mobilizing resources and personnel to assist coastal areas expected to be affected by the storm. Governor Stein will hold a media briefing on Wednesday, August 20, at 10:15 a.m. to provide updates about the hurricane’s progress.
“Hurricane Erin will bring threats of coastal flooding, beach erosion, and dangerous surf conditions,” said Governor Josh Stein. “North Carolinians along the coast should get prepared now, ensure their emergency kit is ready, and listen to local emergency guidelines and alerts in the event they need to evacuate.”
Local authorities have also declared States of Emergency in Dare County and Hyde County. Mandatory evacuations are underway for residents and visitors on Ocracoke and Hatteras islands. People leaving these areas can seek shelter at the State Operated Disaster Shelter run by Warren County Emergency Management at 113 Wilcox Street in Warrenton, NC; pets are permitted at this location.
Forecasts indicate that Hurricane Erin is likely to intensify over the next two days as it moves northward. The storm may produce waves between 15 and 20 feet high, significant beach erosion, coastal flooding that could affect roads and structures, as well as life-threatening rip currents throughout the week. Tropical storm force winds are expected along parts of the coast—especially on the Outer Banks—on Wednesday and Thursday.
Officials urge residents to complete preparations along the coast immediately. They recommend following trusted sources such as the National Weather Service or local emergency management agencies for updates. Residents should follow instructions from local officials for their safety.
The public is advised to prepare disaster kits including essential documents, cash, prescriptions, phone chargers, insurance policies, and other necessities if evacuation becomes necessary. Those living or visiting potentially impacted areas should plan their evacuation routes in advance; more information can be found at KnowYourZone.NC.Gov.
Authorities also warn against driving through flooded roadways due to previous incidents where lives were lost during such attempts; up-to-date roadway information is available at DriveNC.Gov.
Further details from state emergency teams can be accessed through ReadyNC.Gov/Erin. Executive Order 20 outlining the State of Emergency declaration is also available online.
