A sweeping mandatory evacuation is underway for Hatteras Island as Hurricane Erin barrels toward North Carolina's Outer Banks. Officials warn of historic flooding, life-threatening storm surge, and severe erosion even if the storm does not make direct landfall. With Erin rapidly intensifying, Dare County leaders have taken decisive action to safeguard residents and visitors in the most vulnerable areas.
The evacuation order took effect on Monday, 18 August for all visitors and will expand on Tuesday, 19 August to include residents of Zone A. According to the county's State of Emergency declaration, all residents of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras Village must be off the island by 8 a.m. Tuesday.
