Weather

Throughout history, weather has played a vital role on the Outer Banks be it the lure of a sunny summer day, the biting wind of a nor’easter, or the terrible damage of a hurricane. Being aware of and preparing properly for the weather conditions on the seashore can help make a trip more successful. So when visiting Cape Hatteras National Seashore, pay attention to the weather and stay safe. Below are some tips about weather on the seashore.

Weather and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Hatteras weather is notoriously unpredictable and can change quickly. The exposed nature of the Cape Hatteras lighthouse (open the third Friday in April through Columbus Day in October), and especially the balcony, precludes the safe use of the structure in certain conditions. Therefore, to keep visitors and staff safe, the lighthouse may close due to the following weather conditions: thunderstorms, high winds, rain, high heat, extreme cold, tornados or waterspouts, and hurricanes.

 

Hurricane Information
Hurricane season runs June 1st through November 30th. Although tropical storms can occur off the North Carolina coast at any time during hurricane season, the strongest tropical storms typically impact the North Carolina coast mid-August through September. Your two best sources of hurricane preparedness and evacuation information are NOAA's Hurricane Preparedness website and the Dare County Emergency Management website.

 

Heat and Humidity
A combination of high temperature and high humidity during summer months creates an even higher and possibly dangerous apparent temperature or heat index. Due to health concerns, it is best to limit your physical activity and exposure during days of high heat and humidity. Also, be aware that the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse may close on days with a high heat index as climbing the tower can become too dangerous for staff and visitors alike.

Winds
A day with no wind on the seashore is a rare day indeed. Whatever outdoor activity you have planned, keep the winds in mind. Even on a clear sunny day, the winds can become strong and change vacation plans from a fun day at the beach to a day spent on more indoor pursuits. During the winter months, the winds are not only strong, but often are bitter and cut right through your clothing. So dress appropriately and be aware of things that can fly away in the wind, whatever the season.