🌀 Hurricane Erin Reentry Update: Hatteras Island Opens in Stages Starting August 23

August 23, 2025 – Outer Banks, NC

Following Hurricane Erin’s impact on the Outer Banks, Dare County officials have announced a staged reentry process for Hatteras Island, allowing residents, property owners, and visitors to return safely and efficiently.

🚗 N.C. Highway 12 Reopens at Noon

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has confirmed that N.C. Highway 12 will be safe for travel starting at 12 p.m. today, Saturday, August 23. Crews are still working to clear sand and standing water—some of which may be saltwater and harmful to vehicles. Drivers are urged to proceed with caution and give NCDOT personnel space to work.

🏠 Staged Reentry Schedule

To ensure a smooth and safe return, Dare County has implemented the following priority-based reentry schedule:

✅ Saturday, August 23 at 12 p.m.

  • Priority 2: Permanent Residents & Essential Personnel
    • Must present a valid reentry permit or ID showing a Hatteras Island address.
    • Includes critical business staff (grocery, pharmacy, banks, gas stations, property management, etc.).
  • Priority 3: Non-Resident Property Owners & Employees of Non-Critical Businesses
    • Entry allowed with a current property tax bill or reentry permit and matching ID.

🧳 Sunday, August 24 at 5 a.m.

  • Priority 4: General Public & Visitors
    • No reentry permit required.
    • All restrictions lifted—Hatteras Island fully open to the public.

📍 Communities Included

This reentry process applies to all villages on Hatteras Island:

  • Rodanthe
  • Waves
  • Salvo
  • Avon
  • Buxton
  • Frisco
  • Hatteras

Visitors are strongly encouraged to confirm reservations with their accommodation provider or property manager before traveling.

🌧️ Weather Advisory

Heavy rain is expected on Sunday, August 24, which may cause additional flooding in areas with compromised drainage. Stay updated via the National Weather Service forecast.

If you’re a property owner or planning a visit to Hatteras Island, staying informed is key. For full details on reentry permits and procedures, visit the Dare County Reentry Portal.

📞 Matthew Huband
Broker/Owner – OBX Realty Group
📧 matt@obxrealtygroup.com | 📱 252-480-9283
📍 PO Box 2223 | Kitty Hawk, NC 27949

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