N.C. Highway 12 remains closed on Ocracoke Island as North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) crews continue working to clear sand and saltwater from the roadway following multiple high-tide cycles of ocean overwash.
Northern Ocracoke during Tuesday’s high tide.
The highway, which has been impassable since Saturday, saw significant flooding near the northern beaches, and reopening will depend on conditions improving and crews being able to safely restore access.
On Hatteras Island, N.C. Highway 12 reopened late Tuesday after a roughly five-hour closure caused by overwash that coincided with the afternoon high tide. While the route is open, NCDOT reports that sand and saltwater remain on portions of the highway, particularly across Pea Island where ocean waters breached the dune line on Tuesday, and in Hatteras Village where soundside flooding occured Wednesday afternoon.
The National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City office reports that Coastal Flood Advisories remain in effect until 8:00 p.m.—for oceanside concerns north of Cape Hatteras and soundside concerns south of Cape Hatteras—as strong northerly winds continue to push water levels higher. “Ocean overwash remains possible during high tide in areas with vulnerable dune structures,” the agency cautioned in its latest forecast.
High tides over the next 24 hours are expected to bring renewed flooding threats in some low-lying areas, with additional sand and debris possible on roadways. Residents and visitors are urged to use caution and avoid driving through standing water, as saltwater can damage vehicles.
No home collapses were reported in Buxton or Rodanthe during this latest coastal storm, however, dangerous debris remains on the shoreline, particularly in north Buxton, and beachgoers are advised to avoid these areas.
While conditions are gradually improving, minor coastal flooding and gusty winds are expected to persist through Thursday before tapering into the weekend. Mariners are also advised that elevated surf and strong rip currents remain hazardous along all Outer Banks beaches.
Buxton on Tuesday. Photo by Don Bowers.
Buxton on Tuesday. Photo by Don Bowers.
Buxton on Tuesday. Photo by Don Bowers.
Buxton on Tuesday. Photo by Don Bowers.