Hyde County is currently under a hurricane and storm surge warning. A mandatory evacuation of all Hyde County residents is in effect. A curfew remains in place for Ocracoke Island from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. A countywide ban on alcohol sales will remain in place until the order is lifted.

The forecast has not changed much since yesterday. Hurricane Dorian is a still a strong category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph. Hyde County is expecting sustained winds of 80-90 mph with gusts over 100 mph. Rainfall totals are predicted to be between 8-10 inches with localized areas of up to 15 inches. Flash flooding is very likely during this event. Do not attempt to drive through areas with flooding. Storm surge levels could range between 3-6 feet above ground level. Water levels will rise very rapidly on the sounds, particularly soundside Outer Banks, as the storm passes.

Tropical storm force conditions are expected to arrive around 7:00 pm this evening and continuing through Friday afternoon. Hurricane force conditions are forecasted to begin around 5:00 am Friday morning lasting several hours. Multiple tornadoes in the outer bands of the storm have already impacted eastern NC. Make sure you have multiple ways to receive emergency weather alerts.

Based on the current forecast, Tideland EMC anticipates widespread power outages with restoration activities lasting several days or longer. Tideland line crews will be joined by eighty-one additional personnel from Virginia, South Carolina, and Maryland as well as in-state crews. The extra personnel have been pre-staged in area hotels and consist of line workers and tree removal crews, nearly tripling Tideland's existing repair workforce. Tideland members should report power outages by calling 1-800-882-1001 or by texting OUT to short code 85700.

The Hyde County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will remain operational throughout the duration of this storm and the recovery process. If you have any concerns or need assistance call the EOC at 252-926-3715.

If you have an emergency call 911. Continue monitoring our social media outlets and website www.hydecountync.gov for updates.