Ocracoke Island visitors should strongly consider the projected impacts from Tropical Depression Eight and Tropical Depression Nine when deciding whether to remain on the island or preparing to depart for their stay this week.

With regard to Tropical Depression Eight Ocracoke and OBX Dare County are forecast to receive heavy rainfall and rough surf which may result in transportation delays or impassable roads. Additionally, the tropical storm force wind speed probability for Ocracoke is 40-50 percent, which means that there is a 40-50 percent chance of tropical storm force surface winds with a 1-minute average of greater than or equal to 39 mph. Standing water and tropical storm force winds could impact ferry operations tomorrow evening into Wednesday.

There will also be a high risk of rip currents along the Ocracoke beaches today and the dangerous conditions are likely to continue through Wednesday. The high rip current risk means that dangerous conditions exist for all levels of swimmers. Visitors need to consult with the National Park Service Cape Hatteras National Seashore and heed the advice of the lifeguards when evaluating whether it is safe to enter the water at any of the Ocracoke beaches. Please consider these factors, closely monitor the forecast, and exercise sound judgement while making your travel plans and establishing your daily itinerary.

The strongest winds are expected to remain along or just off the coast. Mariners are urged to exercise extreme caution and remain in port during tropical storm conditions.

The Hyde County Emergency Services Department will continue to monitor the forecast for Tropical Depression Eight and issues advisories as appropriate. We are urging everyone to maintain situational awareness as this system approaches our coast.

It is important to stay informed. Please visit us on at www.facebook.com/HCESD or www.facebook.com/Hyde-County-Public-Information. You may also follow us @HydeNC on Twitter