name: County, Dare County, NC - 2011 Hurricane Irene -> COUNTY, Dare, NC - 2011 Hurricane Irene

name: County, Dare County, NC -> County, Dare County, NC - 2011 Hurricane Irene
cat_notes: REMOVED OLD NOTES LTEL 8/24/11: BULLETINS FOR HURRICANE EARL - FROM THE SITE: Bulletin Number: 4 Date/Time: 9/1/2010 12:05:22 PM Hurricane Warning Issued for Dare County A Hurricane Warning has been issued for all of Dare County and the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to Virginia, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. A hurricane warning indicates that sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher are expected in 24 hours or less. Warnings can remain in effect when dangerously high water or waves exist even though winds may be less than hurricane force. This morning the Dare County Control Group ordered a mandatory evacuation for all Hatteras Island VISITORS. The group of local decision makers issued the order in anticipation of high waves along the oceanfront of Hatteras Island. The evacuation order facilitates visitors leaving Hatteras Island before high seas produce overwash on NC Highway 12 which will impede safe travel. The evacuation is only for visitors on Hatteras Island and does NOT apply for areas north of Oregon Inlet. The order does NOT include the towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Southern Shores, Roanoke Island or the mainland of Dare County. The Dare County Control Group will continue to closely monitor the storm’s progress and will assess whether further evacuation orders are necessary. On nearby Ocracoke Island, Hyde County Emergency Management issued a mandatory evacuation at 5:00am this morning for all visitors and residents of Ocracoke Island. Dare County Emergency Management urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions. Expect high seas, dangerous rip currents and 50 to 60 mile per hour winds as Hurricane Earl passes approximately 80 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. Protective measures should include securing property including all loose outside objects. In advance of any hurricane, everyone should prepare an emergency kit including nonperishable food, water and clothing to sustain each family member for three days. The kit should also include a flashlight, radio, spare batteries, and medications. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear are also recommended. The kit should include photocopies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. Pet owners are reminded to make sure their animals have an identification tag on their collar. The National Park Service has announced the closure today of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center closed today at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close today at 5:00pm. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds closed today at 12:00 noon. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be today at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. The town of Kill Devil Hills will not have residential solid waste collection on Friday, September 3. However, there will be town-wide residential collection on Thursday, September 2. Rollout containers should be placed at the road Wednesday night and remember to properly secure the container after it has been serviced on Thursday. Normal collection will resume Monday, September 6. The Dare County Transportation System has cancelled all scheduled rides for Friday, September 3. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 9/1/2010 8:08:59 AM Evacuation Order Issued for Visitors on Hatteras Island A mandatory evacuation has been issued for all Hatteras Island VISITORS effective immediately. The Dare County Control Group met this morning to assess the storm and issued the order in anticipation of high waves along the oceanfront of Hatteras Island. The evacuation order facilitates visitors leaving Hatteras Island before high seas produce overwash on NC Highway 12 which will impede safe travel. The evacuation is only for visitors on Hatteras Island and does NOT apply for areas north of Oregon Inlet. The order does NOT include the towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Southern Shores, Roanoke Island or the mainland of Dare County. The Dare County Control Group will continue to closely monitor the storm’s progress and will assess whether further evacuation orders are necessary. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for all of Dare County and the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to Virginia, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 36 hours. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions for possible hurricane force winds as the storm is expected to pass approximately 80 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. The National Park Service has announced the closure today of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center will close today at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close today at 5:00pm. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds are scheduled to close today at 12:00 noon. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be today at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. Protective measures should be taken to secure property. Everyone should complete preparation activities, such as storing all loose outside objects. In advance of any hurricane, everyone should prepare an emergency kit including nonperishable food, water and clothing to sustain each family member for three days. The kit should also include a flashlight, radio, spare batteries, and medications. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear are also recommended. The kit should include photocopies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/31/2010 5:54:44 PM RELEASE: Hurricane Watch Issued for the North Carolina Coast, Bulletin #2 The National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Watch for Dare County and all of the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to the Virginia border. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 36 hours. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions for possible hurricane force winds as the storm is expected to pass approximately 100 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. As early as Wednesday, the storm will generate rough seas with a high risk of dangerous rip currents. There is also the potential for serious ocean over-wash in the southern portions of Dare County from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village, which is expected to affect travel on NC Highway 12 south of Oregon Inlet. The North Carolina Emergency Management Office has established a command center to track the storm and mobilize any necessary resources. The Highway Patrol is moving personnel into regionally staged areas and NCDOT has staged equipment in readiness. Dominion Power is following their Hurricane Preparedness Plan and has implemented a Storm Alert phase with normal operating conditions at this time. The Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative has initiated preliminary actions to prepare for possible problems related to Hurricane Earl. The National Park Service has announced the upcoming closure of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center will close Wednesday at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close at 5:00pm Wednesday. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds are scheduled to close at 12:00 noon Wednesday. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be Wednesday at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. The Town of Kill Devil Hills is reviewing their Emergency Preparedness Plan with the Police, Fire, Finance, Administrative, and Public Services Departments all making initial preparations for Hurricane Earl. The Town of Nags Head is closely watching Hurricane Earl and making initial preparations. Those staying along the oceanfront are requested to closely monitor the storm due to the expected high surf and relocate vehicles to higher ground. The Dare County Planning Department reminds contractors to prepare their job sites for hazardous weather by securing loose materials. All residents and visitors are urged to take the same precautionary step along with other storm preparation measures outlined on www.darenc.com. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/31/2010 12:57:41 PM Dare County Control Group Meets To Assess Hurricane Earl The Dare County Control Group met Tuesday morning to assess updated information from the National Weather Service about Hurricane Earl. The group of local decision makers assessed the storm’s path currently projected to remain approximately 100 miles off the Outer Banks. Even with the storm offshore, Earl could produce gale force winds and high surf conditions Wednesday through Friday. There is also the potential for serious ocean over-wash in the southern portions of Dare County from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village. Emergency plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. The North Carolina Emergency Management Office has established a command center to track the storm and mobilize any necessary resources. The Highway Patrol is moving personnel into regionally staged areas and NCDOT has staged equipment in readiness. The Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative has initiated preliminary actions to prepare for possible problems related to Hurricane Earl. The Dare County Control Group encourages residents and visitors to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. No new reentry permits have been issued this year. All previously issued 2008/2009 reentry permits are valid and may be used. Dare County residents may also use a N.C. driver’s license or a current Dare County tax receipt with valid identification for reentry. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and the Emergency Control Group will meet Wednesday morning to further assess the storm and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ->

town: -> Manteo
main_phone: -> (252) 475-5000
address: -> 954 Marshall C. Collins Drive PO Box 1000
notes: SHELTER UPDATES FOR DARE COUNTY / HURRICANE IRENE: http://www.co.dare.nc.us/irene/shelters.html ----------------------- FROM THE SITE - HURRICANE IRENE 8/11: Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 8:05:03 PM Dare County School Closings Dare County Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday August 25th and 26th. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 7:13:52 PM Dare County Order Evacuation of All Visitors The Dare County Control Group has ordered a mandatory evacuation for all visitors throughout all of Dare County effective 8:00 a.m., Thursday, August 25. All visitors are urged to make preparations and leave the area. Dare County Emergency Management urges visitors to take all personal belongings with them during evacuation. Other preparation steps are available at www.ReadyNC.org and www.darenc.com Although the mandatory evacuation order is for all Dare County visitors, residents are advised to take proper precautions and make general storm preparations. This effort should include securing all loose items outdoors. Monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet again on Thursday, August 25 after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center. Further evacuations should be anticipated as Irene moves closer to the Outer Banks. At this time there are no new reentry stickers being issued. The previously issued stickers, for 2008/2009, are still valid. Residents can also use a North Carolina driver’s license showing a Dare County address. Property owners may use a Dare County tax bill with proper identification for reentry. A high rip current risk remains in effect, through Thursday evening, south of Rodanthe, NC. All NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, closed at noon today and the reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks closed at noon today and the Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today and then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach closed at 5:00 p.m. today until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse closed at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches are closed to off-road vehicles and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Nags Head will collect ALL residential trash on Friday, August 26. There will be will no residential or commercial trash collection on Saturday, August 27. The recycling trailers located at Nags Head Town Hall and at the Huron Street public beach access will be not be available until after Hurricane Irene has passed. All commercial recycling is suspended until after the storm. The bulk item/brush drop off yard located across from Nags Head Public Works will be closed Saturday, August 27. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 12:30:00 PM Dare County Activates the Joint Information Section The Dare County Control Group has activated the Joint Information Section (JIS) in preparation for Hurricane Irene. All information regarding local government agencies in Dare County will be released through this source effective today. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring reports from the National Hurricane Center and plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet later today, after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center, to further assess the situation and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Although Hyde County has issued an evacuation order for Ocracoke, there have been no evacuation orders issued, at this time, for any portion of Dare County. Residents and visitors should now be making general storm preparations. This effort should include securing property and making contingency plans for evacuation, in the event an evacuation is ordered. Predetermining a destination is recommended. If an evacuation is ordered, consider calling ahead to make arrangements. During storm events, there are no emergency shelters operated in Dare County. North Carolina Emergency Management will operate shelters elsewhere and information will be announced later as it is made available. The Ferry Division of NCDOT is assisting with the evacuation of Ocracoke Island running regular departure times from Ocracoke to Hatteras on a first-come, first-serve basis. All other ferry routes will continue to operate normal schedules until such time as they are required to tie up vessels for safety. Rip current hazards are at a high risk in southern portions of Dare County including Hatteras Island. Wind and wave conditions at this time support a dangerous rip current advisory and are life threatening to anyone entering the surf. In anticipation of this weather event, all NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, will close at noon today. The Ocracoke Campground reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks will close at noon today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011. The Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011, then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach will close at 5:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011 until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will close at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches will be closed to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. today and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Duck Emergency Operations Team has met and is preparing for the event. The Town of Nags Head is watching Hurricane Irene closely. At this point, there are no changes to operating hours or Town services. Contractors are reminded by the Dare County Planning Department to secure all loose materials at job sites. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20. -> SHELTER UPDATES FOR DARE COUNTY / HURRICANE IRENE: http://www.co.dare.nc.us/irene/shelters.html ----------------------- The County of Dare is working with federal, state and community resources to provide disaster relief and recovery. Listed below are links to important recovery information. Interfaith Community Outreach (ICO) is staffing a telephone information center to coordinate disaster relief services throughout Dare County for people needing help. If you need assistance or you would like to make a donation or volunteer your time or labor to help those in need call (252)475-5758 or (252)475-5759 ---------------------------- August 31, 2011 FEMA-4019-DR-NC North Carolina received a major disaster declaration for Hurricane Irene today that includes Individual Assistance for Beaufort, Carteret, Craven, Dare, Hyde, Pamlico, and Tyrrell Counties (7), and HMGP statewide. --------------------------- FROM THE SITE - HURRICANE IRENE 8/11: Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 8:05:03 PM Dare County School Closings Dare County Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday August 25th and 26th. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 7:13:52 PM Dare County Order Evacuation of All Visitors The Dare County Control Group has ordered a mandatory evacuation for all visitors throughout all of Dare County effective 8:00 a.m., Thursday, August 25. All visitors are urged to make preparations and leave the area. Dare County Emergency Management urges visitors to take all personal belongings with them during evacuation. Other preparation steps are available at www.ReadyNC.org and www.darenc.com Although the mandatory evacuation order is for all Dare County visitors, residents are advised to take proper precautions and make general storm preparations. This effort should include securing all loose items outdoors. Monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet again on Thursday, August 25 after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center. Further evacuations should be anticipated as Irene moves closer to the Outer Banks. At this time there are no new reentry stickers being issued. The previously issued stickers, for 2008/2009, are still valid. Residents can also use a North Carolina driver’s license showing a Dare County address. Property owners may use a Dare County tax bill with proper identification for reentry. A high rip current risk remains in effect, through Thursday evening, south of Rodanthe, NC. All NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, closed at noon today and the reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks closed at noon today and the Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today and then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach closed at 5:00 p.m. today until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse closed at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches are closed to off-road vehicles and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Nags Head will collect ALL residential trash on Friday, August 26. There will be will no residential or commercial trash collection on Saturday, August 27. The recycling trailers located at Nags Head Town Hall and at the Huron Street public beach access will be not be available until after Hurricane Irene has passed. All commercial recycling is suspended until after the storm. The bulk item/brush drop off yard located across from Nags Head Public Works will be closed Saturday, August 27. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 12:30:00 PM Dare County Activates the Joint Information Section The Dare County Control Group has activated the Joint Information Section (JIS) in preparation for Hurricane Irene. All information regarding local government agencies in Dare County will be released through this source effective today. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring reports from the National Hurricane Center and plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet later today, after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center, to further assess the situation and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Although Hyde County has issued an evacuation order for Ocracoke, there have been no evacuation orders issued, at this time, for any portion of Dare County. Residents and visitors should now be making general storm preparations. This effort should include securing property and making contingency plans for evacuation, in the event an evacuation is ordered. Predetermining a destination is recommended. If an evacuation is ordered, consider calling ahead to make arrangements. During storm events, there are no emergency shelters operated in Dare County. North Carolina Emergency Management will operate shelters elsewhere and information will be announced later as it is made available. The Ferry Division of NCDOT is assisting with the evacuation of Ocracoke Island running regular departure times from Ocracoke to Hatteras on a first-come, first-serve basis. All other ferry routes will continue to operate normal schedules until such time as they are required to tie up vessels for safety. Rip current hazards are at a high risk in southern portions of Dare County including Hatteras Island. Wind and wave conditions at this time support a dangerous rip current advisory and are life threatening to anyone entering the surf. In anticipation of this weather event, all NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, will close at noon today. The Ocracoke Campground reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks will close at noon today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011. The Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011, then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach will close at 5:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011 until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will close at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches will be closed to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. today and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Duck Emergency Operations Team has met and is preparing for the event. The Town of Nags Head is watching Hurricane Irene closely. At this point, there are no changes to operating hours or Town services. Contractors are reminded by the Dare County Planning Department to secure all loose materials at job sites. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20.
zip: 00000 -> 27954

notes: FROM THE SITE - HURRICANE IRENE 8/11: Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 8:05:03 PM Dare County School Closings Dare County Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday August 25th and 26th. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 7:13:52 PM Dare County Order Evacuation of All Visitors The Dare County Control Group has ordered a mandatory evacuation for all visitors throughout all of Dare County effective 8:00 a.m., Thursday, August 25. All visitors are urged to make preparations and leave the area. Dare County Emergency Management urges visitors to take all personal belongings with them during evacuation. Other preparation steps are available at www.ReadyNC.org and www.darenc.com Although the mandatory evacuation order is for all Dare County visitors, residents are advised to take proper precautions and make general storm preparations. This effort should include securing all loose items outdoors. Monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet again on Thursday, August 25 after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center. Further evacuations should be anticipated as Irene moves closer to the Outer Banks. At this time there are no new reentry stickers being issued. The previously issued stickers, for 2008/2009, are still valid. Residents can also use a North Carolina driver’s license showing a Dare County address. Property owners may use a Dare County tax bill with proper identification for reentry. A high rip current risk remains in effect, through Thursday evening, south of Rodanthe, NC. All NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, closed at noon today and the reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks closed at noon today and the Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today and then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach closed at 5:00 p.m. today until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse closed at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches are closed to off-road vehicles and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Nags Head will collect ALL residential trash on Friday, August 26. There will be will no residential or commercial trash collection on Saturday, August 27. The recycling trailers located at Nags Head Town Hall and at the Huron Street public beach access will be not be available until after Hurricane Irene has passed. All commercial recycling is suspended until after the storm. The bulk item/brush drop off yard located across from Nags Head Public Works will be closed Saturday, August 27. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 12:30:00 PM Dare County Activates the Joint Information Section The Dare County Control Group has activated the Joint Information Section (JIS) in preparation for Hurricane Irene. All information regarding local government agencies in Dare County will be released through this source effective today. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring reports from the National Hurricane Center and plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet later today, after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center, to further assess the situation and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Although Hyde County has issued an evacuation order for Ocracoke, there have been no evacuation orders issued, at this time, for any portion of Dare County. Residents and visitors should now be making general storm preparations. This effort should include securing property and making contingency plans for evacuation, in the event an evacuation is ordered. Predetermining a destination is recommended. If an evacuation is ordered, consider calling ahead to make arrangements. During storm events, there are no emergency shelters operated in Dare County. North Carolina Emergency Management will operate shelters elsewhere and information will be announced later as it is made available. The Ferry Division of NCDOT is assisting with the evacuation of Ocracoke Island running regular departure times from Ocracoke to Hatteras on a first-come, first-serve basis. All other ferry routes will continue to operate normal schedules until such time as they are required to tie up vessels for safety. Rip current hazards are at a high risk in southern portions of Dare County including Hatteras Island. Wind and wave conditions at this time support a dangerous rip current advisory and are life threatening to anyone entering the surf. In anticipation of this weather event, all NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, will close at noon today. The Ocracoke Campground reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks will close at noon today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011. The Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011, then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach will close at 5:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011 until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will close at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches will be closed to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. today and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Duck Emergency Operations Team has met and is preparing for the event. The Town of Nags Head is watching Hurricane Irene closely. At this point, there are no changes to operating hours or Town services. Contractors are reminded by the Dare County Planning Department to secure all loose materials at job sites. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20. -> SHELTER UPDATES FOR DARE COUNTY / HURRICANE IRENE: http://www.co.dare.nc.us/irene/shelters.html ----------------------- FROM THE SITE - HURRICANE IRENE 8/11: Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 8:05:03 PM Dare County School Closings Dare County Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday August 25th and 26th. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 7:13:52 PM Dare County Order Evacuation of All Visitors The Dare County Control Group has ordered a mandatory evacuation for all visitors throughout all of Dare County effective 8:00 a.m., Thursday, August 25. All visitors are urged to make preparations and leave the area. Dare County Emergency Management urges visitors to take all personal belongings with them during evacuation. Other preparation steps are available at www.ReadyNC.org and www.darenc.com Although the mandatory evacuation order is for all Dare County visitors, residents are advised to take proper precautions and make general storm preparations. This effort should include securing all loose items outdoors. Monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet again on Thursday, August 25 after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center. Further evacuations should be anticipated as Irene moves closer to the Outer Banks. At this time there are no new reentry stickers being issued. The previously issued stickers, for 2008/2009, are still valid. Residents can also use a North Carolina driver’s license showing a Dare County address. Property owners may use a Dare County tax bill with proper identification for reentry. A high rip current risk remains in effect, through Thursday evening, south of Rodanthe, NC. All NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, closed at noon today and the reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks closed at noon today and the Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today and then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach closed at 5:00 p.m. today until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse closed at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches are closed to off-road vehicles and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Nags Head will collect ALL residential trash on Friday, August 26. There will be will no residential or commercial trash collection on Saturday, August 27. The recycling trailers located at Nags Head Town Hall and at the Huron Street public beach access will be not be available until after Hurricane Irene has passed. All commercial recycling is suspended until after the storm. The bulk item/brush drop off yard located across from Nags Head Public Works will be closed Saturday, August 27. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 12:30:00 PM Dare County Activates the Joint Information Section The Dare County Control Group has activated the Joint Information Section (JIS) in preparation for Hurricane Irene. All information regarding local government agencies in Dare County will be released through this source effective today. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring reports from the National Hurricane Center and plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet later today, after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center, to further assess the situation and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Although Hyde County has issued an evacuation order for Ocracoke, there have been no evacuation orders issued, at this time, for any portion of Dare County. Residents and visitors should now be making general storm preparations. This effort should include securing property and making contingency plans for evacuation, in the event an evacuation is ordered. Predetermining a destination is recommended. If an evacuation is ordered, consider calling ahead to make arrangements. During storm events, there are no emergency shelters operated in Dare County. North Carolina Emergency Management will operate shelters elsewhere and information will be announced later as it is made available. The Ferry Division of NCDOT is assisting with the evacuation of Ocracoke Island running regular departure times from Ocracoke to Hatteras on a first-come, first-serve basis. All other ferry routes will continue to operate normal schedules until such time as they are required to tie up vessels for safety. Rip current hazards are at a high risk in southern portions of Dare County including Hatteras Island. Wind and wave conditions at this time support a dangerous rip current advisory and are life threatening to anyone entering the surf. In anticipation of this weather event, all NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, will close at noon today. The Ocracoke Campground reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks will close at noon today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011. The Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011, then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach will close at 5:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011 until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will close at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches will be closed to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. today and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Duck Emergency Operations Team has met and is preparing for the event. The Town of Nags Head is watching Hurricane Irene closely. At this point, there are no changes to operating hours or Town services. Contractors are reminded by the Dare County Planning Department to secure all loose materials at job sites. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20.

notes: BULLETINS FOR HURRICANE EARL - FROM THE SITE: Bulletin Number: 4 Date/Time: 9/1/2010 12:05:22 PM Hurricane Warning Issued for Dare County A Hurricane Warning has been issued for all of Dare County and the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to Virginia, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. A hurricane warning indicates that sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher are expected in 24 hours or less. Warnings can remain in effect when dangerously high water or waves exist even though winds may be less than hurricane force. This morning the Dare County Control Group ordered a mandatory evacuation for all Hatteras Island VISITORS. The group of local decision makers issued the order in anticipation of high waves along the oceanfront of Hatteras Island. The evacuation order facilitates visitors leaving Hatteras Island before high seas produce overwash on NC Highway 12 which will impede safe travel. The evacuation is only for visitors on Hatteras Island and does NOT apply for areas north of Oregon Inlet. The order does NOT include the towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Southern Shores, Roanoke Island or the mainland of Dare County. The Dare County Control Group will continue to closely monitor the storm’s progress and will assess whether further evacuation orders are necessary. On nearby Ocracoke Island, Hyde County Emergency Management issued a mandatory evacuation at 5:00am this morning for all visitors and residents of Ocracoke Island. Dare County Emergency Management urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions. Expect high seas, dangerous rip currents and 50 to 60 mile per hour winds as Hurricane Earl passes approximately 80 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. Protective measures should include securing property including all loose outside objects. In advance of any hurricane, everyone should prepare an emergency kit including nonperishable food, water and clothing to sustain each family member for three days. The kit should also include a flashlight, radio, spare batteries, and medications. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear are also recommended. The kit should include photocopies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. Pet owners are reminded to make sure their animals have an identification tag on their collar. The National Park Service has announced the closure today of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center closed today at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close today at 5:00pm. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds closed today at 12:00 noon. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be today at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. The town of Kill Devil Hills will not have residential solid waste collection on Friday, September 3. However, there will be town-wide residential collection on Thursday, September 2. Rollout containers should be placed at the road Wednesday night and remember to properly secure the container after it has been serviced on Thursday. Normal collection will resume Monday, September 6. The Dare County Transportation System has cancelled all scheduled rides for Friday, September 3. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 9/1/2010 8:08:59 AM Evacuation Order Issued for Visitors on Hatteras Island A mandatory evacuation has been issued for all Hatteras Island VISITORS effective immediately. The Dare County Control Group met this morning to assess the storm and issued the order in anticipation of high waves along the oceanfront of Hatteras Island. The evacuation order facilitates visitors leaving Hatteras Island before high seas produce overwash on NC Highway 12 which will impede safe travel. The evacuation is only for visitors on Hatteras Island and does NOT apply for areas north of Oregon Inlet. The order does NOT include the towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Southern Shores, Roanoke Island or the mainland of Dare County. The Dare County Control Group will continue to closely monitor the storm’s progress and will assess whether further evacuation orders are necessary. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for all of Dare County and the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to Virginia, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 36 hours. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions for possible hurricane force winds as the storm is expected to pass approximately 80 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. The National Park Service has announced the closure today of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center will close today at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close today at 5:00pm. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds are scheduled to close today at 12:00 noon. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be today at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. Protective measures should be taken to secure property. Everyone should complete preparation activities, such as storing all loose outside objects. In advance of any hurricane, everyone should prepare an emergency kit including nonperishable food, water and clothing to sustain each family member for three days. The kit should also include a flashlight, radio, spare batteries, and medications. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear are also recommended. The kit should include photocopies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/31/2010 5:54:44 PM RELEASE: Hurricane Watch Issued for the North Carolina Coast, Bulletin #2 The National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Watch for Dare County and all of the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to the Virginia border. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 36 hours. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions for possible hurricane force winds as the storm is expected to pass approximately 100 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. As early as Wednesday, the storm will generate rough seas with a high risk of dangerous rip currents. There is also the potential for serious ocean over-wash in the southern portions of Dare County from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village, which is expected to affect travel on NC Highway 12 south of Oregon Inlet. The North Carolina Emergency Management Office has established a command center to track the storm and mobilize any necessary resources. The Highway Patrol is moving personnel into regionally staged areas and NCDOT has staged equipment in readiness. Dominion Power is following their Hurricane Preparedness Plan and has implemented a Storm Alert phase with normal operating conditions at this time. The Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative has initiated preliminary actions to prepare for possible problems related to Hurricane Earl. The National Park Service has announced the upcoming closure of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center will close Wednesday at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close at 5:00pm Wednesday. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds are scheduled to close at 12:00 noon Wednesday. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be Wednesday at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. The Town of Kill Devil Hills is reviewing their Emergency Preparedness Plan with the Police, Fire, Finance, Administrative, and Public Services Departments all making initial preparations for Hurricane Earl. The Town of Nags Head is closely watching Hurricane Earl and making initial preparations. Those staying along the oceanfront are requested to closely monitor the storm due to the expected high surf and relocate vehicles to higher ground. The Dare County Planning Department reminds contractors to prepare their job sites for hazardous weather by securing loose materials. All residents and visitors are urged to take the same precautionary step along with other storm preparation measures outlined on www.darenc.com. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/31/2010 12:57:41 PM Dare County Control Group Meets To Assess Hurricane Earl The Dare County Control Group met Tuesday morning to assess updated information from the National Weather Service about Hurricane Earl. The group of local decision makers assessed the storm’s path currently projected to remain approximately 100 miles off the Outer Banks. Even with the storm offshore, Earl could produce gale force winds and high surf conditions Wednesday through Friday. There is also the potential for serious ocean over-wash in the southern portions of Dare County from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village. Emergency plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. The North Carolina Emergency Management Office has established a command center to track the storm and mobilize any necessary resources. The Highway Patrol is moving personnel into regionally staged areas and NCDOT has staged equipment in readiness. The Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative has initiated preliminary actions to prepare for possible problems related to Hurricane Earl. The Dare County Control Group encourages residents and visitors to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. No new reentry permits have been issued this year. All previously issued 2008/2009 reentry permits are valid and may be used. Dare County residents may also use a N.C. driver’s license or a current Dare County tax receipt with valid identification for reentry. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and the Emergency Control Group will meet Wednesday morning to further assess the storm and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. -> FROM THE SITE - HURRICANE IRENE 8/11: Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 8:05:03 PM Dare County School Closings Dare County Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday August 25th and 26th. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 7:13:52 PM Dare County Order Evacuation of All Visitors The Dare County Control Group has ordered a mandatory evacuation for all visitors throughout all of Dare County effective 8:00 a.m., Thursday, August 25. All visitors are urged to make preparations and leave the area. Dare County Emergency Management urges visitors to take all personal belongings with them during evacuation. Other preparation steps are available at www.ReadyNC.org and www.darenc.com Although the mandatory evacuation order is for all Dare County visitors, residents are advised to take proper precautions and make general storm preparations. This effort should include securing all loose items outdoors. Monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet again on Thursday, August 25 after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center. Further evacuations should be anticipated as Irene moves closer to the Outer Banks. At this time there are no new reentry stickers being issued. The previously issued stickers, for 2008/2009, are still valid. Residents can also use a North Carolina driver’s license showing a Dare County address. Property owners may use a Dare County tax bill with proper identification for reentry. A high rip current risk remains in effect, through Thursday evening, south of Rodanthe, NC. All NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, closed at noon today and the reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks closed at noon today and the Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today and then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach closed at 5:00 p.m. today until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse closed at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches are closed to off-road vehicles and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Nags Head will collect ALL residential trash on Friday, August 26. There will be will no residential or commercial trash collection on Saturday, August 27. The recycling trailers located at Nags Head Town Hall and at the Huron Street public beach access will be not be available until after Hurricane Irene has passed. All commercial recycling is suspended until after the storm. The bulk item/brush drop off yard located across from Nags Head Public Works will be closed Saturday, August 27. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/24/2011 12:30:00 PM Dare County Activates the Joint Information Section The Dare County Control Group has activated the Joint Information Section (JIS) in preparation for Hurricane Irene. All information regarding local government agencies in Dare County will be released through this source effective today. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring reports from the National Hurricane Center and plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. The Dare County Control Group will meet later today, after the 5:00 p.m. storm advisory has been issued by the National Hurricane Center, to further assess the situation and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Although Hyde County has issued an evacuation order for Ocracoke, there have been no evacuation orders issued, at this time, for any portion of Dare County. Residents and visitors should now be making general storm preparations. This effort should include securing property and making contingency plans for evacuation, in the event an evacuation is ordered. Predetermining a destination is recommended. If an evacuation is ordered, consider calling ahead to make arrangements. During storm events, there are no emergency shelters operated in Dare County. North Carolina Emergency Management will operate shelters elsewhere and information will be announced later as it is made available. The Ferry Division of NCDOT is assisting with the evacuation of Ocracoke Island running regular departure times from Ocracoke to Hatteras on a first-come, first-serve basis. All other ferry routes will continue to operate normal schedules until such time as they are required to tie up vessels for safety. Rip current hazards are at a high risk in southern portions of Dare County including Hatteras Island. Wind and wave conditions at this time support a dangerous rip current advisory and are life threatening to anyone entering the surf. In anticipation of this weather event, all NPS Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet, will close at noon today. The Ocracoke Campground reservation system has been temporarily suspended. The Silver Lake Marina NPS docks will close at noon today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011. The Ocracoke Visitor Center, Hatteras Island, Bodie Island and Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will remain open until close of business today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011, then will remain closed until further notice. Previously scheduled evening programs for August 24 are cancelled. Lifeguard beach operations at Ocracoke, Buxton, and Coquina Beach will close at 5:00 p.m. today, Wednesday, August 24, 2011 until further notice. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will close at 6:00 p.m. today until further notice. All park special programs scheduled for Founder’s Day, Thursday, August 25th, have been cancelled. Regularly scheduled Fall Interpretive programming will resume after the storm passes the area. The Flags Over Hatteras event, scheduled for August 25-28, has been postponed until further notice. Ocracoke beaches will be closed to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. today and all other beaches in the National Seashore will close to off-road vehicles by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25th. Dare County garbage pickup will be done on a regular basis through Friday, August 26. The Town of Duck Emergency Operations Team has met and is preparing for the event. The Town of Nags Head is watching Hurricane Irene closely. At this point, there are no changes to operating hours or Town services. Contractors are reminded by the Dare County Planning Department to secure all loose materials at job sites. Updates and bulletins will be issued on an as needed basis and will be available on www.darenc.com and Government Access Channel 20.
cat_notes: -> REMOVED OLD NOTES LTEL 8/24/11: BULLETINS FOR HURRICANE EARL - FROM THE SITE: Bulletin Number: 4 Date/Time: 9/1/2010 12:05:22 PM Hurricane Warning Issued for Dare County A Hurricane Warning has been issued for all of Dare County and the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to Virginia, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. A hurricane warning indicates that sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher are expected in 24 hours or less. Warnings can remain in effect when dangerously high water or waves exist even though winds may be less than hurricane force. This morning the Dare County Control Group ordered a mandatory evacuation for all Hatteras Island VISITORS. The group of local decision makers issued the order in anticipation of high waves along the oceanfront of Hatteras Island. The evacuation order facilitates visitors leaving Hatteras Island before high seas produce overwash on NC Highway 12 which will impede safe travel. The evacuation is only for visitors on Hatteras Island and does NOT apply for areas north of Oregon Inlet. The order does NOT include the towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Southern Shores, Roanoke Island or the mainland of Dare County. The Dare County Control Group will continue to closely monitor the storm’s progress and will assess whether further evacuation orders are necessary. On nearby Ocracoke Island, Hyde County Emergency Management issued a mandatory evacuation at 5:00am this morning for all visitors and residents of Ocracoke Island. Dare County Emergency Management urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions. Expect high seas, dangerous rip currents and 50 to 60 mile per hour winds as Hurricane Earl passes approximately 80 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. Protective measures should include securing property including all loose outside objects. In advance of any hurricane, everyone should prepare an emergency kit including nonperishable food, water and clothing to sustain each family member for three days. The kit should also include a flashlight, radio, spare batteries, and medications. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear are also recommended. The kit should include photocopies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. Pet owners are reminded to make sure their animals have an identification tag on their collar. The National Park Service has announced the closure today of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center closed today at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close today at 5:00pm. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds closed today at 12:00 noon. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be today at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. The town of Kill Devil Hills will not have residential solid waste collection on Friday, September 3. However, there will be town-wide residential collection on Thursday, September 2. Rollout containers should be placed at the road Wednesday night and remember to properly secure the container after it has been serviced on Thursday. Normal collection will resume Monday, September 6. The Dare County Transportation System has cancelled all scheduled rides for Friday, September 3. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 3 Date/Time: 9/1/2010 8:08:59 AM Evacuation Order Issued for Visitors on Hatteras Island A mandatory evacuation has been issued for all Hatteras Island VISITORS effective immediately. The Dare County Control Group met this morning to assess the storm and issued the order in anticipation of high waves along the oceanfront of Hatteras Island. The evacuation order facilitates visitors leaving Hatteras Island before high seas produce overwash on NC Highway 12 which will impede safe travel. The evacuation is only for visitors on Hatteras Island and does NOT apply for areas north of Oregon Inlet. The order does NOT include the towns of Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Southern Shores, Roanoke Island or the mainland of Dare County. The Dare County Control Group will continue to closely monitor the storm’s progress and will assess whether further evacuation orders are necessary. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for all of Dare County and the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to Virginia, including the Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 36 hours. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions for possible hurricane force winds as the storm is expected to pass approximately 80 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. The National Park Service has announced the closure today of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center will close today at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close today at 5:00pm. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds are scheduled to close today at 12:00 noon. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be today at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. Protective measures should be taken to secure property. Everyone should complete preparation activities, such as storing all loose outside objects. In advance of any hurricane, everyone should prepare an emergency kit including nonperishable food, water and clothing to sustain each family member for three days. The kit should also include a flashlight, radio, spare batteries, and medications. Blankets, rain gear and appropriate footwear are also recommended. The kit should include photocopies of important family documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 2 Date/Time: 8/31/2010 5:54:44 PM RELEASE: Hurricane Watch Issued for the North Carolina Coast, Bulletin #2 The National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane Watch for Dare County and all of the North Carolina Coast from north of Surf City to the Virginia border. A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 36 hours. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and urges all residents and visitors to take necessary precautions for possible hurricane force winds as the storm is expected to pass approximately 100 miles off the Outer Banks early Friday morning. As early as Wednesday, the storm will generate rough seas with a high risk of dangerous rip currents. There is also the potential for serious ocean over-wash in the southern portions of Dare County from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village, which is expected to affect travel on NC Highway 12 south of Oregon Inlet. The North Carolina Emergency Management Office has established a command center to track the storm and mobilize any necessary resources. The Highway Patrol is moving personnel into regionally staged areas and NCDOT has staged equipment in readiness. Dominion Power is following their Hurricane Preparedness Plan and has implemented a Storm Alert phase with normal operating conditions at this time. The Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative has initiated preliminary actions to prepare for possible problems related to Hurricane Earl. The National Park Service has announced the upcoming closure of Visitor Centers and Campgrounds. The Ocracoke Visitor Center will close Wednesday at 12:00 noon and the Hatteras Island, Bodie Island, Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh Visitor Centers will close at 5:00pm Wednesday. The Ocracoke, Frisco, Cape Point and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds are scheduled to close at 12:00 noon Wednesday. The last climb for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be Wednesday at 2:00pm with the lighthouse closing at 3:00pm. By Thursday, expected surf conditions will create unsafe conditions on Seashore beaches and off-road vehicle use will be prohibited until safe conditions allow for this activity. The Town of Kill Devil Hills is reviewing their Emergency Preparedness Plan with the Police, Fire, Finance, Administrative, and Public Services Departments all making initial preparations for Hurricane Earl. The Town of Nags Head is closely watching Hurricane Earl and making initial preparations. Those staying along the oceanfront are requested to closely monitor the storm due to the expected high surf and relocate vehicles to higher ground. The Dare County Planning Department reminds contractors to prepare their job sites for hazardous weather by securing loose materials. All residents and visitors are urged to take the same precautionary step along with other storm preparation measures outlined on www.darenc.com. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20. ### Bulletin Number: 1 Date/Time: 8/31/2010 12:57:41 PM Dare County Control Group Meets To Assess Hurricane Earl The Dare County Control Group met Tuesday morning to assess updated information from the National Weather Service about Hurricane Earl. The group of local decision makers assessed the storm’s path currently projected to remain approximately 100 miles off the Outer Banks. Even with the storm offshore, Earl could produce gale force winds and high surf conditions Wednesday through Friday. There is also the potential for serious ocean over-wash in the southern portions of Dare County from Rodanthe to Hatteras Village. Emergency plans are in place to handle whatever contingency may arise. The North Carolina Emergency Management Office has established a command center to track the storm and mobilize any necessary resources. The Highway Patrol is moving personnel into regionally staged areas and NCDOT has staged equipment in readiness. The Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative has initiated preliminary actions to prepare for possible problems related to Hurricane Earl. The Dare County Control Group encourages residents and visitors to monitor local news outlets for further advisories from the National Weather Service and state and local emergency management officials. No new reentry permits have been issued this year. All previously issued 2008/2009 reentry permits are valid and may be used. Dare County residents may also use a N.C. driver’s license or a current Dare County tax receipt with valid identification for reentry. Dare County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Earl and the Emergency Control Group will meet Wednesday morning to further assess the storm and take whatever action is necessary to assure public safety. Bulletins will be issued as needed and available at www.darenc.com and on Government Access Channel 20.