Hyde County officials are monitoring Hurricane Joaquin in terms of its potential impact to Ocracoke Island and mainland Hyde County. Based on the 2:00 p.m. advisory from the National Hurricane Center, tropical storm force winds are expected to start impacting Ocracoke Island on Sunday, October 4, 2015.  Joaquin is also likely to result in high seas, several inches of rain, flooding, and strong winds.

In consideration of the recent heavy rain and minor flooding, Hyde County officials will allow extra time for any emergency actions. An emergency meeting of the Hyde County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for Thursday, October 1, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. (in the Hyde County Government Center, Multi-Use Room and at the Ocracoke Island School Commons Room using electronic conferencing equipment) to discuss preparations for Hurricane Joaquin.

The public should start preparing now for the storm and be ready to take decisive action if emergency declarations are made.