Hurricane/Evacuation Information

When an Evacuation Order is Issued

If state or local officials issue a Mandatory Evacuation Order, guests must prepare to leave the property immediately. Please take all belongings with you, just as you would at a normal departure. Items left behind cannot be retrieved and will be discarded.

 

As part of check-out, we ask that you complete your usual departure steps, plus a few extra tasks to help us secure the property quickly and safely.

 

After you have have departed the property please inform Blue Heron Realty and head to the ferry. You can NOT wait at your property til a ferry becomes available as maintenance has to secure the house.

Preparing the House Before You Leave

  1. Lock windows and doors to help secure them.
  2. Deck furniture: Heavy/wooden pieces – flip over and place against the house. Lightweight/plastic items – bring them inside.
  3. Trash: Empty all household trash into the outdoor bin, making sure the lid closes. Move the bin to a sheltered spot under the house. If your trash exceeds one bin, please take it to the nearest dumpster.
  4. Refrigerator & Food: Remove everything from the fridge and freezer. All food is discarded prior to storms due to potential power outages.

Hurricane Season & Travel Insurance

  • Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30
  • Because of our island’s location, storms and strong weather systems do occur. For this reason, we strongly encourage guests to purchase travel insurance. It is the only way to protect your vacation investment in the event of interruptions or cancellations due to weather.

Without insurance, refunds or rescheduling are not available in the event of an evacuation, per the North Carolina Vacation Rental Act.

After the Storm

  • For updates, please check our homepage and social media. We will post evacuation notices, re-entry information, and storm updates as soon as they are available.
  • Please do not call the office during the height of the storm—we may not be staffed and need to focus on securing homes. “No news is good news”: if your home is unaffected, you will not hear from us. If your rental is impacted, we will contact you directly as soon as possible.

FAQs

Do I have to leave if an evacuation is called?
Yes. Under NC law, tenants must comply with mandatory evacuations. Staying behind is not permitted and will result in trespassing.

 

Why such a rush to leave the property?
Securing hundreds of homes, offices, and staff residences takes significant time before conditions worsen. Quick evacuation helps ensure everyone’s safety.

 

Can I stay and ride out the storm?
No. Ocracoke is uniquely vulnerable with limited roads, ferry access, and emergency services. Power outages, flooding, and damage can make it unsafe and impossible to assist anyone who remains.

 

✨ Your safety is our top priority. Please follow all evacuation orders, prepare your property as outlined, and travel safely.