Island Free Press

The Island Free Press is the inaugural online newspaper dedicated to the residents and visitors of both Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. Launched on September 5, 2007, it has expanded its reach, content, and readership over the years. The primary goal of The Island Free Press is to report on the individuals, topics, and events that continuously influence the communities of Hatteras and Ocracoke.

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Loggerhead sea turtle fleeing flashlights highlights the importance of minimizing disturbances during the nesting season

3 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

On Saturday night, a sea turtle in Rodanthe was interrupted in a beach landing to presumably lay eggs, as beachgoers in the immediate area crowded around to catch photos and videos of the sight. “Last night, I witnessed a large Loggerhead turtle exiting the water,” said Rodanthe Pier employee Brad Hanson on Sunday. “As soon as that happened, every person on the beach surrounded the turtle with their very bright LED flashlights. The turtle was blocked from going any further.
Lighthouse Arts & Crafts Shows are held every month in Buxton; Next show is June 27-28

3 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

Rain or shine, visitors are welcome to explore a range of local artists and craftsmen at the monthly Lighthouse Arts & Crafts shows at the Family Life Center in Buxton. Lighthouse Church of Buxton hosts this monthly event, where their venue is full of local artists who are able to share their talent in a clean, air-conditioned building out of the wind, rain, and heat that is commonplace on Hatteras Island.
Extreme Heat Warning continues on Wednesday

3 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

An Extreme Heat Warning continues for the Outer Banks and Eastern N.C. through Wednesday at 8:00 p.m., according to an update from the National Weather Service (NWS). Heat indices in excess of 110-115 degrees are likely on Wednesday, with actual temperatures in the 90s. Above normal temperatures each night will lead to less relief, even after sunset, adding to the impact of the heat wave this week.
Cape Hatteras ties 1944 high temperature record for June 24

3 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

Cape Hatteras reached 95 degrees on Tuesday and tied a high temperature record for the second day in a row, according to an update from the National Weather Service (NWS). Tuesday’s 95 degrees ties the previous June 24 record set 81 years ago, and Cape Hatteras also tied its June 23rd high temperature record of 90 degrees, which was previously set in 2018. “Tomorrow will be even hotter, and with heat indices expected to exceed 110°F,” stated the NWS in a Tuesday evening update.
Shrimping amendments spark bipartisan backlash on Tuesday

4 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

North Carolina lawmakers, marine scientists, and coastal residents came together on Tuesday to sound the alarm over legislation they say threatens the heart of the state’s commercial fishing economy — the shrimping industry.
Vehicle crash in Rodanthe causing delays on N.C. Highway 12

4 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

A vehicle crash on N.C. Highway 12 in Rodanthe has resulted in travel delays on N.C. Highway 12, according to an incident report shared on https://drivenc.gov/. The crash occurred near Wimble Shores North and Lela Court, and traffic is backed up in both directions, according to multiple reports. The cause of the crash and any associated injuries are not yet known. The Island Free Press will provide updates as soon as they become available.
North Carolina Department of Agriculture sends letter to lawmakers opposing shrimp trawling ban

4 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services has sent a letter to state lawmakers opposing the potential shrimp trawling ban in House Bill 442. On June 17, a bill that required opening recreational flounder and red snapper seasons was amended in its purpose and verbiage to include a ban on shrimp trawling in North Carolina’a sounds and nearshore ocean waters.
N.C. Senate passes buyout program bill for shrimpers affected by trawling ban

4 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

On Monday, June 23, the North Carolina Senate approved a bill that provides temporary compensation for commercial fishermen who will be deeply affected by a proposed shrimp trawling ban in a related bill, House Bill 442. House Bill 441 passed 45-2 in its second reading on Monday night, with only Senator Hanig and Senator Sanderson casting a “no” vote.
Extreme Heat Warning issued for Tuesday and Wednesday

4 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

An Extreme Heat Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for the Outer Banks and Eastern N.C. from Tuesday morning through Wednesday night. Heat indices in excess of 105-110 degrees are likely through Wednesday, with actual temperatures in the 90s. It should be noted that well above normal temperatures each night will lead to less relief, even after sunset, adding to the impact of the heat this week.
Coastal communities fear the many ripple effects of a shrimp trawling ban

5 days ago | islandfreepress.org | Joy Crist

When traveling east on U.S. 64 – the main highway that connects central N.C. to the Outer Banks – drivers will encounter a billboard encouraging visitors to ask for local seafood.