Know Your Zone

lighthouse in a North Carolina marsh

Know Your Zone is an evacuation system that highlights areas most vulnerable to impacts from hurricanes, tropical storms, and other hazards. In an emergency, local officials will order evacuations using zones to keep your family safe.  

What do the different zones mean?  

Areas in Zone A will typically be evacuated first, followed by areas in Zone B, etc. While all zones won’t be evacuated in every event, emergency managers will work with local media and use other outreach tools to notify residents and visitors of impacted zones and evacuation instructions. 

How can I find my zone?  

If you live in a coastal county, a zone has likely been assigned. CLICK HERE to enter your address and find your zone online OR CLICK HERE for a printable pdf of your county’s zone.  

Why is my county not within an evacuation zone?  

If there is no zone in your area, you will likely not be evacuated due to hazardous storm conditions. However, this does not mean that you will never receive instructions from your local officials for major emergencies. You should still know how to protect your family from potential risks and listen closely to emergency communications during any severe weather event or emergency. 

What should I do if my county orders an evacuation?  

Once an evacuation has been called, gather your belongings and leave as soon as possible for your personal safety. By following evacuation orders, you are protecting both yourself and first responders. 

Need more information?  

CLICK HERE for more frequently asked questions or call 2-1-1 (or 1-888-892-1162). NC 211 call specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

SOURCES: NC Department of Emergency Management  

Last updated 4/1/2022

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