Local

Hurricane Arthur prompts evacuations of Hatteras Island

CAPE HATTERAS, N.C. — A mandatory evacuation order has taken effect for Hatteras Island as Hurricane Arthur approaches North Carolina's Outer Banks.

Dare County officials decided Wednesday evening to begin the evacuation at 5 a.m. Thursday.

The order covers the communities of Rodanthe, Salvo, Waves, Avon, Buxton and Hatteras Village.

Dare County officials say no one will be allowed onto the island.

NC Highway 12 is likely to be closed by water and sand overwash as the storm approaches. Officials recommend that people use U.S. Highway 64 to Interstate 95, rather than traveling north on the Outer Banks into Virginia.

In neighboring Hyde County, a voluntary evacuation was requested at Ocracoke Island. Officials warn those staying on the island they could experience a loss of electricity, as well as flooding.