Hurricane Joaquin Advisory #6

Date: October 6, 2015
Contact: BG Horvat, 252-728-2250 ext. 3005

Harkers Island, NC – Although Hurricane Joaquin moved further east out into the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Lookout National Seashore still endured a slow moving upper level low and associated Nor' easter-type surface low. This weather system brought significant amounts of rainfall and very high tides to an already very saturated region.

In the interest of the safety and welfare of park visitors and staff, Cape Lookout National Seashore will continue to remain closed Wednesday October 7 and Thursday, October 8, 2015. We will continue to evaluate conditions with a goal of reopening the park as soon as possible.

Today, the National Park Service conducted initial assessments of storm impacts on portions of islands within the Seashore. The assessments focused on critical natural and cultural resources, identifying safety hazards that must be mitigated, assessing damage to facilities and infrastructure and identifying the critical repairs that are necessary to reopen the park for an enjoyable and safe experience for visitors. These initial assessments found damaged facilities and safety hazards that merit the park remaining closed. The National Park Service will be completing assessments to portions of the park that were not accessible today, making necessary repairs and mitigating safety hazards.

Of particular concern are the high surf conditions that the island beaches were still experiencing today as well as the flooded back road on North and South Core Banks. These conditions would make the use of off-road vehicle unsafe.

All reservations for Long Point and Great Island Cabin Camps have been canceled through Thursday night, October 8, 2015. To confirm, or cancel existing reservations, please inquire through www.recreation.gov (Customer Service Phone: [phone]) prior to traveling to the park.

For more information, Please check the park website, www.nps.gov/calo and on Facebook and Twitter: twitter.com/CapeLookoutNPS