Currituck

Citizens Can Expect Tropical Storm Conditions Tonight

Citizens in Currituck County should be prepared for Tropical Storm-force conditions tonight as Hurricane Earl passes the northeastern North Carolina coast. Storm-force winds are predicted in the area from 10 p.m. tonight until 10 a.m. Friday morning. The timeframe for the most severe conditions is 12 midnight – 6 a.m. Friday.

For the Currituck Outer Banks, the National Weather Service currently predicts sustained winds of 40-50 mph, with gusts up to 70 mph. Storm surge is expected to be 3-4 feet, with breaking waves at 12-15 feet. With these conditions, significant beach erosion is predicted. Accumulated rainfall will be 2-4 inches.

On the Currituck Mainland, conditions are expected to be slightly less severe. Sustained winds are predicted in the 30-40 mph range, with gusts up to 50 mph. The southern mainland area may see slightly higher wind gusts, along with 2-4 inches of rain. Northern Currituck will experience slightly lower wind gusts and rainfall amounts.

Citizens are advised to limit travel this evening and stay home if possible. Outdoor items should be secured and pets should be brought inside overnight.

Currituck County has increased staffing levels for 911 Communications, Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Medical Services. The Emergency Control Group will work continuously out of the Emergency Operations Center through the duration of the hurricane event.

For continued updates, monitor www.CurrituckGovernment.com. Citizens can also call Emergency Management at 252-232-2115 or Public Information at 252-232-0719. Phones will be manned continuously through the hurricane event.

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