Hurricane Season for Outer Banks North Carolina 2025
Planning a trip to the coast of North Carolina? Wondering when the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins and ends?
You sir/madam have come to the right place.
The hurricane season for the Outer Banks runs from June 1st through November 30th.
These dates are just generalities though, there have been hurricanes that have formed in the Atlantic Ocean during the months of May and December.
For the most part, you shouldn’t be overly concerned with having your vacation cut short by a hurricane. On average about one tropical depression impacts the area a year, and several years can go by without any hurricanes making landfall in eastern North Carolina.
You should know that the weather on the Outer Banks can sometime be unpredictable. You should also know that the months of August, September, and October are typically the most active in regards to tropical storms. So if you plan your visit in June, July or November, you really shouldn’t worry about these storms.
The good news is that hurricanes are typically very slow-moving and normally form a thousand or so miles away from North Carolina’s coast. This means that you’ll likely have plenty of notice if and when a storm is coming so that you can evacuate the area long before the storm arrives.
Many Outer Banks vacation rental providers offer vacation insurance, which will reimburse you for some or all of the money you spent on lodging if a named storm makes landfall on the Outer Banks.
Keep in mind that this insurance only protects you if there is a hurricane.
If a tropical storm (wind speed between 39 and 73 mph) is barreling towards the coast, you will typically not be refunded. Be sure to ask lots of questions when deciding whether or not to purchase vacation travel insurance.
How Often Do Hurricanes Hit the Outer Banks?
On average, the Outer Banks experiences one tropical system each year that brings noticeable rain or surf impacts. However, direct hurricane landfalls are far less frequent — roughly once every five to seven years. The table below shows the typical storm likelihood by month.
| Month | Storm Likelihood | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| June | Low | Season begins; occasional tropical depressions form early. |
| July | Moderate | Storm activity increases as Atlantic waters warm. |
| August | High | Peak formation period; storms can track close to the coast. |
| September | Very High | The most active month for hurricanes affecting North Carolina. |
| October | Moderate | Late-season systems may impact southern OBX islands. |
| November | Low | Season winds down; rare post-tropical storms possible. |
How to Prepare for a Hurricane While Visiting the Outer Banks
Even though hurricanes are rare during most vacations, knowing how to prepare can make all the difference. Follow these five simple steps to stay safe and minimize disruption during your trip to the Outer Banks.
Monitor official weather updates
Check the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and NOAA forecasts daily during your stay. Enable alerts on your phone for coastal warnings or tropical advisories.
Prepare an emergency supply kit
Pack essentials such as flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, snacks, and a basic first aid kit. Keep your emergency bag easily accessible near the front door or car.
- Emergency kit (flashlight, batteries, water, first aid)
- Printed evacuation map and contact list
- Charged phone and power bank
Know your evacuation route
Identify the nearest highway or bridge leading off your island area—such as the Wright Memorial Bridge (Kitty Hawk) or Bonner Bridge (Hatteras). Follow Dare County Emergency Management guidance for official routes.
Secure your belongings
Bring patio furniture, bikes, and outdoor gear indoors. Place valuables and electronics in waterproof containers or elevated shelves to reduce flood risk.
Follow local evacuation orders promptly
If authorities issue an evacuation, leave immediately once it’s safe to travel. Avoid driving through standing water and plan alternate routes north toward the mainland if bridges close.
Okay, this post should have provided you with a general overview of when the hurricane season on the Outer Banks is… its the same time period each year!
We hope you enjoy your trip to the beach, and encourage you to try not to worry about if/when a storm is going to impact the area – it’s going to happen inevitably again, and again… just hopefully not during your vacation!
coming july 29
what the hell
Please note. A tropical depression will not have 50+ winds. Tropical storm yes.
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