OCRACOKE, N.C. — The Outer Banks is beginning to reopen after Hurricane Erin's passage.

Hyde County has lifted the evacuation order for essential personnel, residents and property owners on Ocracoke Island, effective noon on Friday.

County officials said access will be allowed in that order of priority, pending North Carolina Department of Transportation ferry availability.

In Currituck County, a local state of emergency has been rescinded, and the mandatory evacuation order for the Corolla Off-Road Area has been lifted. The 4WD beach driving area will be accessible to the public beginning at noon on Friday.

Motorists are asked to use caution on the dune access ramps where erosion has occurred, and some areas may be impassable during high tides. Corolla Beach Rescue has posted double

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