The Outer Banks is known for its peaceful beaches and charming coastal towns - perfect for a relaxing getaway. But being right on the Atlantic also means we’re more vulnerable to tropical weather. June 1 to November 30 is hurricane season, with peak activity occuring from mid-August through late October. Stay ahead of any storm with these helpful tips and resources.
Trip Insurance: Your First Line of Defense
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance when you book your stay. It can protect your vacation investment if a hurricane or other natural disaster leads to a mandatory evacuation.
A quick note - if a storm has already been named in the Atlantic at the time of your booking, it’s too late to add this coverage. Booking early and adding insurance right away ensures you’re protected.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
If a tropical system or storm develops, be sure to tune in for official updates from the National Hurricane Center. Many storms, including some winter nor’easters, won’t require evacuation, but conditions can still be dangerous.
Even if the worst of the weather stays offshore, it can cause life-threatening rip currents, rough surf, and ocean overwash. Daily updates on local beach conditions can by found at Love the Beach, Respect the Ocean.
What’s the Difference Between a Watch and a Warning?
A tropical storm or hurricane watch is issued when the risk of storm conditions has increased but the location and/or timing remains uncertain. A watch indicates that hazardous weather conditions are possible. It’s a time to keep an eye on the storm track, but locally, weather conditions are likely to be nice, with no impact from the potential storm. On the Outer Banks, a watch is issued when storm conditions are possible within 48 hours. This is a good time to make evacuation plans.
A tropical storm or hurricane warning is issued when hazardous weather conditions are likely or imminent for a location. A warning is issued when tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. This is when it’s time to take action to prepare for the impending storm.
What Happens if There’s an Evacuation?
The Outer Banks is comprised of two counties.
- Dare County includes the towns and villages of Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, Manteo, Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras
- Currituck County is the mainland from VA border to the Wright Memorial Bridge, Corolla, and the 4x4 beaches (Carova, Swan Beach, and North Swan Beach)
Each county makes their own independent determination regarding evacuation and re-entry. If local officials determine a storm is a serious threat, a mandatory evacuation will be issued.
- Guests in Dare County should watch for updates from Dare County Government
- Guests in Currituck County should follow Currituck County Emergency Management
If you’re a Sun Realty guest, we’ll send you updates on pertinent storm details and local announcements. Leaving as soon as possible when an evacuation is ordered can save you a significant amount of time in traffic. Hitting the road quickly is also important because conditions can change rapidly. Roads may close or become impassable, flooding can occur, and storm surge may make structures and travel unsafe. Staying behind can mean no access to emergency services, power, supplies or safe roads.
When is it Safe to Return?
Re-entry after a storm has passed follows a staged schedule, with initial access granted to essential personnel, followed by permanent residents and essential personnel of critical businesses. Priority 3 is non-resident property owners and non-resident employees of non-critical business. Lastly, the general public will be welcome to return to the beach. Permits are issued for priority 1-3, where priority 4 (general public and visitors) does not require a permit. Visit the Dare County Emergency Management page for details on re-entry.
By planning ahead and adding trip insurance, you can enjoy the beauty of the Outer Banks even during hurricane season, knowing you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature sends our way.