Tourists may return to Hatteras, Ocracoke Islands Friday at noon
Beginning Friday at noon, tourists will be able to return to Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands following mandatory power restrictions.
The Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative on Thursday power has been restored to Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands in the Outer Banks.
"Residents and businesses on Hatteras and Ocracoke are ready to welcome visitors back to share their beautiful beaches and unique history and culture," said Gov. Roy Cooper. "Getting power back sooner than expected means visitors can return and local businesses can get back to work during peak summer travel season."
North Carolina Department of Transportation ferries will return to normal schedule beginning 5 a.m. Friday, Cooper's office said, but visitors will not be allowed onto the ferries until after 12 p.m.
The power outage started when a construction crew struck and damaged a transmission line on Bonner Bridge on July 27.
Thank you @CarolinaCountry for preparing this awesome illustration! #OBXBlackout Transmission testing should start today! pic.twitter.com/ld8FkNg1Sf
— Tideland EMC (@TidelandEMC) August 3, 2017
Visitors are still encouraged to contact their accommodation providers to confirm their reservation and arrival plans.
