A State of Emergency has been issued for all areas of Dare County—including the Towns of Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head and Manteo—beginning at 12 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026 due to expected impacts from the winter storm, which is forecast to bring significant snow accumulation, coastal flooding, high winds and extremely cold temperatures to the area. A State of Emergency enables local officials to take actions to protect public health and safety during an emergency if needed.
Additionally, a Winter Storm Warning, Coastal Flood Warning, High Wind Warning and Extreme Cold Watch issued by the National Weather Service at Newport/Morehead City, N.C. remain in effect.
The Town of Kitty Hawk reminds all residents and visitors that now is the time to finalize winter storm preparations. Ensure you have adequate food, medications and other essential supplies to last for several days, and make necessary arrangements to protect pets and property.
Key Impacts:
- A combination of snow, cold temperatures and wind that could lead to life-threatening conditions outside
- Wind gusts of 50–67 mph
- Severe coastal flooding from both the ocean and sound, particularly in vulnerable, low-lying areas on both the oceanside and soundside
- Extremely cold temperatures in the teens and single digits
Due to dangerous conditions posed by coastal flooding and significant snow accumulation beginning Saturday, January 31, 2026, residents are strongly urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and remain off the roads, particularly secondary and rural routes, which may become impassable for an extended period. Plan to remain at home through the weekend—and into next week—as travel conditions are unlikely to improve until temperatures rise above freezing.
Ocean and soundside flooding is expected in low-lying areas on both Hatteras Island and the northern beaches, with 2–4 feet of inundation above ground level possible. Flooding will impact vulnerable areas, particularly along N.C. Highway 12, where conditions may deteriorate rapidly and lead to road closures. Travel along N.C. Highway 12 could become dangerous—or life-threatening—and should be avoided as conditions worsen.
Residents and property owners near the water should complete preparations today (Friday, January 30, 2026), including securing belongings, elevating items where possible, relocating vehicles and taking other protective actions. Be prepared to protect property and to relocate if conditions warrant.
View the latest weather briefing from the National Weather Service.
Click here for winter storm preparation information
For a full list of resources visit DareNC.gov/WinterStorm
Closures/Cancellations
Kitty Hawk Town Council Meeting Cancelled: With the information available and in the interest of public safety, Kitty Hawk Town Council has unanimously elected to cancel the February 2, 2026 Town Council meeting. With no time sensitive issues before Council, the February agenda will rollover to the March 2nd meeting agenda.
Please note that the March 2, 2026 Town Council meeting will begin at 5 pm to allow election officials the time necessary to prepare for the primary election on March 3, 2026 in the Smith Meeting Room.
Recycle Center Closed: Due to anticipated inclement weather, the Kitty Hawk Recycling Center will be closed on Saturday January 31, 2026.
For updates and closures/cancellations, follow Town of Kitty Hawk on Facebook and visit kittyhawknc.gov.