Hatteras Island Under Coastal Flood Advisory! What You Need to Know
Hatteras Island is currently under a Coastal Flood Advisory until noon today, September 9, 2025, due to higher astronomical tides and strong northeast winds. The National Weather Service reports that these conditions are causing coastal flooding in portions of Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, particularly during high tide periods.
Minor Ocean Overwash Reported
Minor ocean overwash has already been reported in northern Buxton, starting around 6:30 a.m. today. This occurred approximately 2.5 hours before the morning's high tide. While N.C. Highway 12 remains open and passable on Hatteras Island as of 7:00 a.m., authorities are urging travelers to exercise extreme caution and drive slowly. Saltwater can be damaging to vehicles, so it's crucial to minimize exposure.
Ferry Schedule Adjustments
The Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry is operating on a limited schedule due to the current weather conditions. Minor to moderate overwash has also been reported on N.C. Highway 12 on northern Ocracoke Island as of 7:00 a.m.
Hatteras & Ocracoke Ferry Departures
- Hatteras Departures: 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m., 5 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m., 9 p.m., 11 p.m., Midnight
- Ocracoke Departures: 9:30 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m., Midnight
High Risk of Rip Currents
In addition to the Coastal Flood Advisory, a high risk of rip currents is in effect from Cape Point in Buxton to the northern Outer Banks. Swimmers and beachgoers should be extremely cautious and avoid entering the water if possible.
Stay Informed
For the latest local forecast information, visit weather.gov/mhx. You can also find updates on the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/