Repair Options: We've Got 'Em
Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative (CHEC) confirmed Sunday morning that all three transmission lines that provide power to the islands were compromised.
They are currently working on two solutions to repair the lines. One is to continue excavating the damaged cables and work to splice them back together. Work has already begun on the line that was previously excavated. The second solution is to build a new overhead transmission line that would run from the south end of the Bonner Bridge to meet the cooperative's existing overhead transmission line. Both options are actively being worked on and CHEC says depending on which solution turns out to be the most practical, the time line for a complete repair could vary from one to two weeks. There are still efforts underway to provide additional generator power to temporarily restore the normal load used. Completion of any of these options would allow visitors back to Ocracoke Island.
The three emergency mobile generators that Tideland EMC installed on the island are continuing to provide power for the residents. An occasional maintenance outage is to be expected from time to time but their goal is to keep them brief. At this time they are not operating on a rotating service schedule and all circuits are energized. Tideland is now allowing island residents to utilize air conditioning and water heating but may request that those loads be restricted once again depending on daily outdoor temperatures, generator reliability and utility load. The success of operating the island on generator power depends entirely on everyone heeding their conservation calls when issued. Please adhere to any instructions provided by Tideland's text messaging alerts. We would like to thank Tideland EMC and their employees for their continued support during this crisis.
The mandatory evacuation of visitors from Ocracoke Island has been completed and will remain in effect until an adequate power supply can be provided to support them. Only individuals who are Ocracoke residents, seasonal residents, non-resident property owners, vendors, and emergency personnel who display a valid re-entry pass, or who possess some form of documentation proving residency and/or employment, will be allowed access to the island. Any seasonally employed residents that are having issues producing documentation to gain access to the island should call 252-926-4374 for assistance. All renters should be aware that, pursuant to Article 6 of Chapter 42A-36 of the North Carolina General Statues, travel insurance claims may be made when a claimant is complying with a mandatory evacuation. Please contact your travel insurance policy provider after evacuating from the island.
The NC DOT Ferry Division is operating on their winter schedule for all routes to and from Ocracoke. They will resume operating on the normal summer schedule once the evacuation order has been lifted. All tolls have been waived for routes between Ocracoke, Swan Quarter and Cedar Island. Please check the Ferry Division's social media outlets for any changes before you plan your trips. If you have any questions about ferry reservations, cancellations, or refunds, please contact the NC DOT Ferry Division at 252-928-5311. We would also like to thank the NC DOT Ferry Division and their employees for their assistance in the evacuation of the island and their continued support in getting much needed supplies to the citizens of Ocracoke.
