Power back on in Hatteras, Ocracoke; Hatteras evacuation over, reopen to visitors Friday
Hatteras Island will be open to visitors again on Friday at noon after being shut down for more than a week, according to Dare County officials on Thursday.
Power is back on across Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, according to the Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative.
Mandatory power restrictions for Hatteras were lifted as CHEC completed stabilization of the power grid and visitors were being allowed to return to Hatteras on Friday.
The mandatory evacuation order for visitors to Ocracoke Island had not been lifted yet as of about 5 p.m. Thursday.
The blackout struck Hatteras and Ocracoke islands at about 4:30 a.m. Thursday, July 27, when a crew from PCL Construction damage underground power lines on the northern tip of Hatteras Island while working on the new Bonner Bridge, cutting off power to both islands.
Crews worked through the week to excavate the two damaged power cables and erect a new overhead line to restore power to the islands. Crews managed to connect the overhead power line and bring reliable electricity back to the islands on Thursday. Businesses shut down, rental properties stayed empty and seasonal workers were left wondering where their next paycheck would come from.
Several lawsuits also were filed in federal and state courts by firms on behalf of residents, businesses and employees.
Abbie Bennett: 919-836-5768, @AbbieRBennett
Alternate route to Hatteras recommended
Visitors traveling to Hatteras Island should consider an alternative route from the west to make travel faster, Dare County officials said Thursday. From I-95 in North Carolina, take U.S. 64 East toward Rocky Mount. Follow U.S. 64 East through Williamston and Plymouth. From Plymouth, keep going east to Roanoke Island and follow Highway 12 South to Hatteras Island.
This story was originally published August 3, 2017 at 4:41 PM with the headline "Power back on in Hatteras, Ocracoke; Hatteras evacuation over, reopen to visitors Friday."