Governor Josh Stein provided an update today on Hurricane Erin, which is currently affecting North Carolina’s coast. He was joined by several state officials, including Director of Emergency Management Will Ray, Department of Public Safety Secretary Eddie Buffaloe, Department of Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins, Major General Todd Hunt of the North Carolina National Guard, and Colonel Freddy Johnson from the State Highway Patrol.
“While Hurricane Erin is expected to remain offshore, North Carolinians along the coast must remain vigilant as coastal flooding and life-threatening rip currents continue to impact the region,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our State Emergency Response Team remains ready to quickly respond to any needs and keep coastal residents and visitors safe.”
Director of Emergency Management Will Ray emphasized the importance of following evacuation orders: “If you have been asked to evacuate, please do so now before conditions deteriorate and roads become impassable. Do not drive around barricades and do not drive through flooded waters. You cannot judge the depth or speed of flood waters from inside your vehicle. Please remain informed and have a plan to protect yourself today, tonight, and tomorrow if you are along our coast.”
Yesterday, Governor Stein declared a state of emergency in order to mobilize resources and personnel for Hurricane Erin. The State Emergency Response Team has positioned swift water rescue teams, National Guard troops, boats, high-clearance vehicles, and aircraft in key locations. Two CH-47 helicopters from neighboring states are on standby for potential transport of food and water.
Residents who have evacuated can seek shelter at the State Operated Disaster Shelter hosted by Warren County Emergency Management at 113 Wilcox Street in Warrenton. Pets are allowed at this shelter.
Forecasters predict Hurricane Erin will cause significant beach erosion with waves reaching 15 to 20 feet. Coastal flooding could impact roads, structures, and vehicles throughout the week; dangerous rip currents are also expected. Tropical storm force winds may reach areas such as the Outer Banks late Wednesday into Thursday.
In response to anticipated flooding risks near NC 12, NCDOT crews have worked with heavy equipment to reinforce dunes in vulnerable spots. Ferry service between Ocracoke and Hatteras will continue as weather permits; since Hyde County’s mandatory evacuation order on Sunday, ferries have transported over two thousand people and more than a thousand vehicles from Ocracoke Island to the mainland.
“We have crews ready and are prepared for whatever Erin brings us,” said Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins. “But we are urging people along the coast to stay home until the storm passes and it’s safe to travel again. Much of the storm will remain out to sea, but even the outer bands of Erin could still pack quite a punch. People need to take this storm seriously.”
Officials advise residents to check real-time travel updates related to Hurricane Erin at DriveNC.gov (https://drivenc.gov/).
Authorities recommend that residents follow official sources like the National Weather Service or local emergency agencies for reliable information about hurricane developments. People should prepare disaster kits with essential documents, cash, medications, phone chargers, insurance policies—especially if evacuating—and plan their evacuation routes using KnowYourZone.NC.Gov (https://knowyourzone.nc.gov/). Residents are reminded not to drive through flooded roadways due to safety risks.
For more details from the State Emergency Response Team regarding Hurricane Erin preparations or response efforts, additional information is available online (https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management).
