Editor’s note: This story was updated Nov. 8 to clarify that N.C. 12 on Pea Island was closed due to overwash. N.C. 12 on Ocracoke was not breached.
RALEIGH – N.C. 12 is closed from the Marc Basnight Bridge to Rodanthe on Pea Island and will not be reopened until travel is safe, due to impacts from a coastal storm.
Just after 9 a.m. today, ocean water breached the dunes during high tide and sent water rushing over N.C. 12 and forcing the road’s closure to traffic.
Since then, conditions have not improved.
N.C. Department of Transportation crews will continue their efforts to clear N.C. 12 of sand, when conditions allow. N.C. 12 could remain closed through Tuesday as crews must clear the highway and rebuild the washed-out dunes that protect it.
People should avoid travel on N.C. 12, as it is extremely dangerous to travel through flooded roads. Also, never try to go around or remove barricades. Removing barricades is against the law and they are there to protect you.
A storm that started Saturday is bringing to coastal North Carolina 40 mph sustained winds with gusts up to 55 mph and localized heavy rainfall.
The ferries that run between Ocracoke, Cedar Island, Swan Quarter and Hatteras Island have been suspended due to the high winds along the coast. Ferry service will resume when deemed to be safe to do so.
Flooding has occurred throughout the Outer Banks, especially at high tide.
The storm is expected to continue impacting the coast until exiting the state Monday.
For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.
