October 5, 2016 12 p.m. 

Hyde County Monitoring Progress of Hurricane Matthew

Most forecast models now predicting the Atlantic high pressure ridge will keep Matthew to the South. The latest possible track shows the storm turning east into the Atlantic before it reaches the North Carolina coast, according to the National Hurricane Center. The North Carolina coastline could be spared a direct hit from Matthew if the forecast track issued by the National Hurricane Center holds over the next three days. 

While the latest path of Matthew is much more favorable, state and local officials warn that Hyde County will still be subject to storm impacts. A State of Emergency remains in effect for Hyde County, N.C. The Hyde County Emergency Services Department is continuing to monitor Hurricane Matthew. This is a storm that should be taken very seriously for its potential to result in catastrophic impacts for portions of the area. Regardless of the exact track or strength there is the potential for dangerous conditions across the entire area.

A mandatory evacuation for Ocracoke Island visitors began this morning at 5 a.m., Wednesday, October 5, 2016. Even though the forecast has changed significantly, the visitor evacuation orders are still necessary and has proceeded smoothly according to the NC DOT Ferry Division. 

While Hyde County Officials are considering a suspension of the evacuation order issued for resident and non-resident property owners, this order will remain in place until the forecast becomes more consistent. Resident and non- resident property owners, vendors and critical infrastructure providers will be permitted to travel to and from the island today, Wednesday, October 5, 2016. Please be prepared to show documentation of the aforementioned statuses to gain access to the island. Individuals wishing to gain access to the island will need to have the appropriate reentry tag or they will be required to produce evidence of property ownership or residency. If a suspension of evacuation proclamation is approved, the entry/re-entry priorities being enforced will be modified. 

A mandatory evacuation will remain in effect for Ocracoke Island property owners until deemed otherwise and will begin at 5 a.m., Thursday, October 6, 2016. Only emergency personnel and vendors will be granted access to Ocracoke Island on Thursday, October 6, 2016. Hyde County will continue to monitor the situation and will make decisions on suspension of this evacuation order as the forecast path becomes more certain. 

All ferries to and from Ocracoke Island will run as scheduled on Wednesday, October 5, 2016 and Thursday, October 6, 2016. No ferries will run on Friday, October 7, 2016, but this may be reconsidered if the forecast remains consistent. Visitors are encouraged to evacuate as early as possible to ensure safe travels to their intended destinations. Residents and non-resident property owners are encouraged to monitor the situation and continue to prepare for deteriorating weather conditions and possible evacuation slated to begin in the morning. 

A decision on the issuance of mandatory evacuation orders for the Hyde County Mainland is now less likely, but again is subject to forecast. Information regarding mainland evacuations will be communicated if necessary. 

Closely monitor the forecast for Matthew in the coming days, and be prepared to take action to protect yourself and your property. Secure your home. Board up windows and secure lawn furniture, mowers, hanging plants, trash cans and other loose items in the yard. Check on your neighbors, particularly the elderly or disabled. 

Make plans now for how you will deal with the potential threats and impacts. Your plans and preparedness measures should include:   

• Have a disaster preparedness kit ready, and take your emergency supplies kit with you when you evacuate;
• Pack important family documents in a waterproof container;
• Have a place to go, such as the home of a family member or friend, motel or shelter;
• Notify family or friends of your plans, when you are leaving and where you are going;
• Be familiar with area's evacuation routes;
• Fill your car with gas;
• Bring extra cash as banks may be closed and ATMs may not work; 
• Do not panic;
• Arrive safely at your destination. 

Please be advised, flood waters may contain sewage and other harmful contaminants. Keep children and pets out of flood waters. 

Please maintain awareness and monitor for further updates from Hyde County Public Information.