Hurricane season is underway, and now is the time to make sure you and your family are prepared before a storm threatens the Outer Banks.

Dare County Emergency Management Director Drew Pearson and National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Erik Heden will host three free Hurricane Preparedness Forums in July to help residents, property owners and visitors better understand the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season and the steps they can take to stay safe. The second forum will take place in Kitty Hawk, NC for the communities located within the northern portion of Dare County.

Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Kitty Hawk Town Hall
(101 Veterans Memorial Drive, Kitty Hawk, NC)
Register now. 

During this forum, attendees will receive the latest outlook for the current hurricane season, learn preparedness strategies and hear about updates to National Weather Service forecast products. Presenters will also explain why it's important to focus on a storm's potential impacts—such as flooding, storm surge, high winds and tornadoes—rather than relying solely on its hurricane category when making decisions.

At the end of the forum, time will be set aside for a community discussion during which attendees can ask questions and share their concerns and receive guidance directly from local emergency management and weather experts.

This event is free and open to the public. Whether you're a longtime resident, a new homeowner or frequent visitor during hurricane season, these forums offer valuable information to help you make informed decisions before severe weather strikes.