The Dare County Control Group met this morning (Saturday) to receive updated information regarding initial assessments including road conditions and power restoration efforts. The following reentry guidelines have been established based on current conditions: 

Access to Hatteras Island remains closed until further notice. This includes all areas south of Oregon Inlet including the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras Village. NCDOT continues efforts to clear the roads of sand and water, and make repairs as necessary. A checkpoint has been established to restrict entry to Hatteras Island. 

For areas north of Oregon Inlet, priority two reentry begins Saturday, September 7 at 12 noon. Priority Two includes permanent residents and essential personnel for critical businesses. Permanent residents must present a valid NC driver’s license or government-issued ID with a local address in an area of the County north of Oregon Inlet. Essential personnel of critical businesses must present a priority two reentry permit with a matching government-issued id.    

Please proceed with caution due to standing water, tree limbs, and debris that are still on some roadways. Many traffic lights are still not operating. Watch for hazards, including loose or dangling power lines and report them to local law enforcement or power companies. Please respect crews along roadways that are working diligently to restore power and clear roadways. 

Restrictions on ocean swimming remain in place due to dangerous surf conditions and strong rip currents along the beaches. Everyone must stay out of the water as it is unsafe for even the most experienced swimmers.  

For detailed information about the staged reentry process and to apply for permits, visit www.darenc.com/reentry.

The Dare County Control Group will continue to meet to assess conditions and implement reentry for additional priorities as conditions improve and power is restored. Updates will be distributed via the county’s emergency alert system. Sign up to receive alerts via text, voice and email at www.darenc.com/alerts or visit darenc.com for updated information.