North Carolina governor declares state of emergency as Outer Banks prepares for remnants of Hurricane Ian
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Gov. Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency Wednesday for North Carolina ahead of Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in southwest Florida as a strong Category 4 storm.
On the Outer Banks, school buildings are closed Friday, weekend events are being canceled and the popular Ocracoke passenger ferry is ending its season early as the area prepares for heavy rain, high winds and possible coastal flooding associated with the storm.
The popular Ocracoke passenger ferry ended its seasonal service Wednesday, two days early, and transportation officials cautioned other ferry runs may also be impacted.
“With the remnants of Hurricane Ian expected to pass to the west, a stalled front offshore, and a strong high pressure system to the north, strong winds and heavy rain are forecast for much of eastern North Carolina throughout the weekend,” the N.C. Department of Transportation said in a news release. “Other North Carolina ferry routes will likely be impacted as the weather deteriorates.”
Dare County Schools announced Wednesday that Friday will be a virtual learning day for students and staff due to the forecast for bad weather.
The National Park Service has postponed the 150th anniversary celebration of the first lighting of the Bodie Island Lighthouse south of Nags Head due to the forecast. The event will be rescheduled. The park service has also canceled lighthouse climbing and ranger-led programs at the lighthouse this Saturday.
Kari Pugh, kari.pugh@virginiamedia.com
