Latest storm news

We didn't get much more rain overnight, but there is flooding throughout the village as a result of the high tide and winds. Essentially, some of Pamlico Sound decided to come ashore and visit. I took several pictures this morning and will post them here in a while, but for now here's some of what I know or have heard:
- parts of Hwy 12 are closed (see advisory below for more specifics on this)
- the house used for the film Nights in Rodanthe ("Serendipity") fell into the ocean (this is unconfirmed, but there is video on weather.com of houses in Nags Head falling into the sea, so I wouldn't be surprised if that fate has also befallen Serendipity)
- school and daycare on the island have closed for the day

And here's the latest advisory.

Public Advisory #3
Date: Friday, November 13, 2009; 10:30 am
Event: Ida Nor’easter
Media Contact: Jamie Tunnell, jamietunnell@gmail.com

A high surf advisory remains in effect until 3:00 pm this afternoon. A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect until 8:00 am Saturday. Hyde County residents and visitors should be alert for rising water and take appropriate action to protect life and property.
Strong winds and building seas could result in overwash and coastal flooding. Rough surf conditions are expected along with a high threat of dangerous rip currents in ocean waters. The next high tides are at 5 pm and 5:25 am on Saturday.

Motorists should be alert for significant water on roadways and localized flooding in low area. Drivers should proceed with extreme caution. Only travel when necessary and be aware of roadside ditches that may not be visible through the overwash. Turn around. Don’t drown.

NC Highway 12 is closed at the Oregon Inlet Bridge with no passage available through the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge to the Rodanthe area . At this time, it is not known when Highway 12 to Hatteras Island will reopen. North Carolina DOT is on-scene working to clear sand and water from the roadway.

Highway 12, north end of Ocracoke, is officially closed. The 2000 block of White Plains Road, Engelhard, is quickly being submerged due to the wind shift. Please be aware of road closings as they happen quickly due to shifting winds and tidal changes.

The Hatteras/Ocracoke ferry operations are suspended this morning until further notice.

The Swan Quarter and Cedar Island routes are running at this time.

Ocracoke School closed today at 9:30 am. Mainland Hyde County Schools are on a 2-hour delay.

Hyde County Emergency Services continues to review the latest weather forecasts, is coordinating with the State and nearby counties, and advising citizens on possible actions to protect themselves and their property. Further updates will be issued as warranted.

Please make yourselves aware of the state ferry system’s schedule and road conditions before making travel plans during this time and after the storm has passed.
Stay tuned to www.noaa.gov and local news and radio stations for the latest updates.

In order to keep 911 phone lines open for emergency communications, please do not call 911 for general inquiries. 911 should be used only for emergencies.

Storm Basis Preparation Initial Checklist:

* Check First Aid Kits/ Fire Extinguishers
* Obtain non-perishable food and water for 3+ days
* Obtain medicine and prescriptions
(5+ recommended for Ocracoke)
* Check and fuel vehicles and generators
* Obtain baby need or personal need items
* Check battery powered electronics and generators
* Make pet arrangements
* Assemble valuables and documents that cannot be
* Pick up loose items around the yard
replaced easily
* Protect vulnerable portions of property

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