News Flash

Gov. Ralph Northam ordered the evacuation of Zone A, the lowest-lying areas of Hampton Roads, as well as the Eastern Shore, beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday.

What does it mean for Hampton?

• In Hampton, that area includes nearly 19,000 households. It is the area most likely to be hit with extremely high tides.

What about public shelters?

• Shelters are an emergency and temporary means of caring for people who cannot find refuge elsewhere. 
• City shelters are open at Phenix School, 1061 Big Bethel Road, 23666, and nearby adjacent Bethel High School at 1067 Big Bethel Road. That will be designed for those with medical needs, as well as general population. You do not pre-register for the shelters; you sign in and register when you arrive. 
• If a resident needs transportation or assistance, call 311.
• Bring bedding, medications, personal items, anything you will need for 2-4 days. If you bring a pet, you are responsible for its care. Please bring pet food, bowls, a crate or cage if you have one, etc.

The state has also opened 2 shelters

State-managed shelters are at Christopher Newport University and the College of William and Mary. They do not accept people with medical needs, but they do not accept pets.

Can people come and go from the shelters?

Yes, but they must take their belongings with them. The city cannot be responsible for monitoring their belongings or saving a particular space.

Is there food at the shelters?

Yes, the school system is providing meals. However, anyone on a special diet or who needs particular comfort foods should bring those.

Will I be arrested for not evacuating?
The decision to evacuate is yours. However, your decision to stay may be risky and you assume all risk as authorities may not be able to help or rescue. We encourage you to follow recommendations made by state and local officials.

If I leave, when can I come home? 
City officials will not restrict the travel of anyone until the storm has hit and conditions would make it unsafe (such as downed trees and/or power lines, or if conditions exist that necessitate the protection of property to prevent looting or other illegal activity. Restriction of travel is an action of last resort.

Is there a place to park a car I need to leave behind?

The city parking garage on Settlers Landing Road near the History Museum is available. There is also parking available on the third floor and ground floor of the garage at Peninsula Town Center. The second level is reserved for residents.

What about my home and belongings? Who will protect them? 

Police will increase patrols in Zone A. They have requested additional support from the National Guard.

How do I know if I'm in the zone? 

The city sent magnets showing residence’s designated zone this summer. If you don’t know your zone, you may be able to search your address at http://bit.ly/knowyourzoneva. However, the state site has been swamped with viewers and not been accessible much of Monday. Hampton residents can call 311 (727-8311). Hampton has a static map at: https://hampton.gov/DocumentCenter/View/23102/Hampton-Evacuation-Zones-2018

Zone A is designated in blue on that map.

Where should I go?

The governor specified that the evacuation was to get people out of the storm surge zones, since flooding is the primary cause of death in a hurricane. State officials urged people to get to higher ground. Some people may choose to stay with friends or family in the city or region who live in other zones. Some people may choose to head farther inland.

What happens next?

Watch for more information at hampton.gov/topnews. Sign up for emergency alerts at hampton.gov/notifyme. Stay tuned to the city's social media.