Last updated August 19, 2025.
When hurricanes approach the Outer Banks, safety is our number one priority. If Dare County Emergency Management issues a Mandatory Evacuation order, all guests must leave the area by the time specified in the official announcement.
For example, during Hurricane Erin (August 2025), Dare County ordered a mandatory evacuation of Hatteras Island effective at 10:00 AM on Monday, August 18. The storm was forecast to bring life-threatening impacts, including coastal flooding and impassable portions of NC Highway 12.
Below you’ll find important information to help you prepare for and understand evacuation procedures.
Evacuation Policy for Seaside Vacations Guests
All guests must depart by the evacuation deadline. Staying beyond the evacuation time is not permitted for any reason.
Keyless entry codes will automatically deactivate at the evacuation deadline, and you will not be able to re-enter your vacation rental.
Duration unknown: Since evacuation orders may remain in place for several days, guests should pack all belongings as if they will not be returning.
Seaside Vacations staff will secure and prepare your rental home for the storm after you depart.
Guest Responsibilities Before Departing
If time allows, we kindly ask that you help us prepare the home before leaving. Please:
Secure all doors and windows; close all interior doors.
Close blinds and turn off all lights.
Set thermostats to 78°F cool.
Empty and turn off all icemakers.
Secure or store all deck furniture (tie down picnic tables, bring lightweight items inside).
Place trash cans under the cottage or secure them in the outdoor shower/tie to a post.
Turn off propane tanks to grills and fireplaces; secure BBQ grills and lids.
Secure hot tub covers with straps.
Lock all entry doors and secure screen doors.
Once you’ve finished, please enter the departure code 123456* on your keyless lock to confirm you’ve safely checked out.
Travel Insurance Information
Guests who purchased Red Sky Travel Insurance may be eligible to file a claim under the Mandatory Evacuation benefit.
Coverage applies when local government authorities order a mandatory evacuation due to a natural disaster or hurricane named after your coverage effective date.
You must have at least 4 days or 50% or less of your trip remaining at the time the evacuation ends to qualify.
Benefits apply to losses occurring within 30 calendar days after the evacuation.
-- File a claim: Red Sky Travel Insurance – Trip Preserver Claims
-- For assistance, call 1-866-889-7409
Stay Informed
During severe weather, communication lines may be limited. For the latest updates:
Dare County Emergency Management: Dare County Updates
Seaside Vacations Facebook: facebook.com/SeasideVacationsOBX
Seaside Vacations Office: 252-261-5500 (please be patient, as call volume will be high during storms)
Final Reminder
Hurricanes are dangerous storms. For your safety and the safety of our staff, remaining in your vacation rental during a mandatory evacuation is not permitted.
We know this can be disappointing, but your well-being comes first. We hope you are able to return and enjoy the Outer Banks under sunnier skies very soon.
