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This news story was updated 5:25 p.m., Sept. 20
NC 12 was closed around noon today on Ocracoke Island between the Pony Pens and the ferry terminal due to a dune breach and ocean overwash.
It was reopened around 3 p.m. to traffic. Sand and water remain on the roadway, so all motorists should drive with extreme caution.
Ferry service between Hatteras and Ocracoke began later in the afternoon.
Due to severe overwash, NC 12 remains closed on Hatteras between Rodanthe and the Basnight Bridge.
The National Weather Service out of Morehead City provided an update late Sunday afternoon:
Oceanside impacts north of Cape Hatteras, and soundside impacts along the Neuse River, Pamlico and Pungo Rivers, Crystal Coast areas, and the southern Pamlico Sound including Ocracoke Island and the Core Banks are expected to continue through Monday.
Water levels will be peaking during the high tide cycle late Monday morning to early afternoon. Winds begin to subside late Monday, along with the most significant coastal flooding impacts. Rip current risk will remain elevated through the beginning to middle of next week.
Cape Hatters Seashore staff reported that beach conditions are worse today than yesterday. Beach-goers should be aware of life-threatening conditions on and just off area beaches, and people should use extreme caution along the shoreline. Ocean overwash is occurring in multiple locations along Hatteras and Ocracoke islands. Most, if not all, off-road vehicle routes will be inaccessible and should be avoided.
Travelers should note that NC 12 could continue to be impacted over the next several days due to the massive swells produced by Hurricane Teddy well out to sea.
On Hatteras Island, the following areas are prone to ocean overwash:
- South of the Basnight Bridge to the Pea Island Visitor Center
- Mirlo Beach area, on the northern edge of the tri-villages
- South of the Avon Pier along Ocean View Drive
- At the north end of Buxton
- Between Frisco and Hatteras Village
- Along Pole Rd., south of Ramp 55 in Hatteras village
- Along the north end of Ocracoke island
