As Hurricane Erin barrels up the Atlantic, evacuation orders are being issued across North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

Residents on Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands are told to leave now—before it’s too late.

But for thousands of people, “evacuate” is easier said than done.

Not everyone has a car. Not everyone has the money for gas, hotels, or time off work. Many seniors, disabled residents, and low-income families are left scrambling—or staying put—because they have no other choice.

Every time a major storm threatens the coast, we hear the same warnings. Yet year after year, the same communities are left behind. This is not just a weather issue—it’s a justice issue.

We’re calling on:

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to create a dedicated evacuation transportation and housing program for people with limited means;

State governments of North Carolina and Virginia in hurricane-prone regions to invest in accessible buses, emergency lodging, and evacuation communications targeted to vulnerable residents.

This isn’t about waiting for disaster to strike. It’s about planning now to prevent tragedy later.

A real evacuation plan includes everyone—not just those who can afford to flee.