Key Information:
- Impacts from Tropical Storm Isaias are currently predicted to reach our area as early as mid-day Sunday, the forecasted track could change, the Village is tracking the storm closely.
- Begin making your personal preparations now if you have not already.
- Evacuation decisions may be made early because of COVID-19-related passenger ferry restrictions.
- Sign up to receive Code Red messages from the Village.
Predicted Track for TS Isaias – Recent National Weather Service predictions show the center of the storm off South Carolina Monday morning with strong winds out ahead of the storm impacting our area starting mid-day Sunday. The forecasted threat of tropical storm force winds along the NC coast has increased some since earlier today. Isaias is now forecast to reach hurricane status as it passes along or near the NC coast. This forecasted track and strength could change. The Village is following the track of the storm closely. NWS Wilmington’s regular briefings on TS Isaias can be viewed HERE. If you are planning on enjoying the water this weekend, please be mindful of rip currents. We will see increasing ocean swell from TS Isaias which will lead to dangerous surf conditions
Begin Preparing Now – Make sure your emergency kit is stocked (now to include masks, and additional hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies for COVID-19), your communications plan is up-to-date, plans are in place to prepare your property, and if you need to evacuate, housing arrangements are made and plans are made to meet other needs (such as medications). Due to COVID-19 the State is recommending that folks not use public shelters as a primary option for housing during this hurricane season. Officials are recommending inland family/friends and hotels instead. Shelters will be available, if needed, but should be a last resort. This may increase the demand for hotels inland. More preparation tips can be found HERE.
Evacuation Decisions May Be Made Early– The Village has been in contact with Bald Head Island Transportation, Inc. which is also preparing ahead of the storm. Passenger capacity on the ferries remains at 50% (75 passengers) and if you are thinking about leaving the island, earlier is better to lessen the chances of being “bumped”.
The US Coast Guard makes decisions on river and port closures during emergency events and these decisions impact the ferry system and in turn, requires the Village to act. With the ferries operating at ½ capacity, it will take even longer than usual to evacuate the island. Decisions may be made early if the storm strengthens and the island is within the predicted path.
Sign up for Code Red – The Village of Bald Head Island utilizes an emergency notification system known as Code Red Village of Bald Head Island citizens can (Click Here) to register to receive emergency messaging and updates about specific events (i.e. hurricanes and/or tropical storms). This system will be used in addition to the Village’s Voice to send important messages via phone, email, and text. Registrants can choose which methods of contact they prefer.
