Ocracoke Hatteras Island Flood Cape Hatteras National Seashore Outer Banks Tide North Carolina

## Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands Ravaged by Flooding from Storm Surge ### Cape Hatteras National Seashore Takes a Hit On September 28th, 2022, Hurricane Ian brought devastating storm surge flooding to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, particularly impacting Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands. The storm's powerful winds and high tides caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. **Ocracoke Island** Ocracoke Island, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and charming village, was severely impacted by the flooding. Storm surge inundated the island, submerging homes and businesses. The island's only road was washed out, leaving residents stranded. **Hatteras Island** Hatteras Island, home to Cape Hatteras National Seashore, also experienced significant flooding. Storm surge washed over dunes and flooded roads, including NC Highway 12, the only road connecting the island to the mainland. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a historic landmark, was surrounded by water and sustained some damage. **Cape Hatteras National Seashore** Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a 70-mile stretch of beaches, dunes, and wetlands, was severely impacted by the storm surge. The park's beaches were eroded, and dunes were breached. The park's visitor center and other facilities were damaged or destroyed. **Cause of Flooding** The flooding on Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands was primarily caused by the storm surge associated with Hurricane Ian. Storm surge is a rise in sea level caused by a storm's strong winds. When storm surge coincides with high tide, it can lead to extreme flooding and coastal erosion. **Impact of Flooding** The flooding from Hurricane Ian had a devastating impact on the Outer Banks. Homes and businesses were destroyed, roads were washed out, and the local economy was crippled. The storm surge also caused significant environmental damage, including the erosion of beaches and the destruction of dunes. **Recovery Efforts** Recovery efforts are underway on Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands. Emergency crews are working to clear roadways, restore power, and provide assistance to residents. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declared the Outer Banks a disaster area, making federal assistance available to affected communities. **Conclusion** Hurricane Ian's storm surge flooding caused significant damage to Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands. The flooding inundated homes, businesses, and infrastructure, leaving residents stranded and causing widespread economic loss. Recovery efforts are ongoing, but the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.