Severe Weather Updates

 

This page will be updated as needed to include any pertinent information regarding severe weather, impacts, and changes to park operations at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial. Weather on the Outer Banks is dynamic- always reference official National Weather Service forecasts, warnings, and hazard statements for the most up-to-date forecast information. Severe weather can happen any time of year.

Local Emergency Information

Cape Hatteras National Seashore is within both Hyde and Dare Counties of North Carolina. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial are in Dare County. Each county has their own Emergency Operations Divisions that advise on local conditions, road closures, and evacuations.

Keep in mind that conditions outside the parks may impact your ability to visit. The ferry system operated by the North Carolina Department of Transportation will likely experience interruptions during severe weather as well, impacting access to Ocracoke Island.

 

Current Weather Impacts

Updated
August 18, 2025 at 8:30 AM

Hurricane Erin

While remaining well off-shore, Hurricane Erin is still projected to impact the Outer Banks, especially Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands beginning August 19, 2025. The storm will generate large waves and storm surge that have high potential to impact highways and infrastructure.

As a result, mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for Hatteras Island in Dare County and Ocracoke Island in Hyde County. All visitors are encouraged to follow guidance from the county emerengency management offices.

Weather

• For weather-related updates, visit the National Weather Service’s Newport/Morehead City website.

Rip Currents

• During most of the year, view the daily beach conditions forecast on the Love The Beach, Respect The Ocean website. To sign up to receive daily beach condition updates via text message, text "OBXBeachConditions" to 77295.