The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has announced the reopening of N.C. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island, scheduled for 5 p.m. on Monday, October 13. The critical route was closed on Sunday following significant ocean overwash and coastal flooding. However, the highway will remain closed on Ocracoke Island as crews address extensive sand and water accumulation.
Key Takeaways
- Hatteras Island: N.C. Highway 12 is set to reopen to traffic at 5 p.m. on Monday, October 13.
- Ocracoke Island: The highway remains closed indefinitely as NCDOT crews work to clear sand and repair damaged dunes.
- Ongoing Hazards: Coastal flooding and hazardous travel conditions persist across the Outer Banks due to strong onshore winds.
- Traveler Advisory: Officials urge motorists to check DriveNC.gov for real-time updates before traveling and to exercise extreme caution on all roads.
Hatteras Island Access Restored with Caution
After a temporary closure that began on Sunday, access to Hatteras Island via N.C. Highway 12 is being restored. The NCDOT confirmed the 5 p.m. reopening, allowing residents and visitors to resume travel along the island's primary artery. The closure was necessary due to severe ocean overwash that left sections of the roadway inundated with saltwater and sand.
Despite the reopening, officials are issuing strong warnings to motorists. Lingering sand and standing water may still be present on the pavement. Drivers are advised to proceed slowly and remain vigilant for changing conditions, as persistent winds and high tides could reintroduce hazards.
The Lifeline of the Outer Banks
N.C. Highway 12 is the only road that connects Hatteras and Ocracoke islands to the mainland. Its frequent closures due to storms and overwash highlight the vulnerability of these barrier islands and pose significant challenges for residents, emergency services, and the local tourism economy.
Official Safety Recommendations
Transportation authorities emphasize that drivers should never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Standing water can conceal hidden dangers such as pavement erosion or debris. The official guidance remains: "Turn Around, Don't Drown." Even after the road is officially open, conditions can deteriorate rapidly.
Ocracoke Island Cleanup Operations Continue
While Hatteras Island prepares for traffic to resume, the situation on Ocracoke Island remains more challenging. N.C. Highway 12 on Ocracoke will stay closed as maintenance crews undertake a significant cleanup and repair operation. The recent storm caused severe overwash, burying parts of the road in deep sand and leaving large pools of standing water.
In addition to clearing the pavement, crews are focused on rebuilding sections of the protective dune system. These dunes serve as a critical barrier against the Atlantic Ocean, and their erosion during the storm left the highway exposed. The restoration of these dunes is essential for protecting the road from future flooding events.
"Travelers are advised to monitor conditions closely and check DriveNC.gov for real-time updates before attempting to drive on either island," an NCDOT advisory stated, highlighting the dynamic nature of the situation.
Persistent Weather Hazards and Forecast
Coastal flooding and dangerous travel conditions continued across the Outer Banks throughout Monday. The primary cause is a persistent onshore wind combined with high surf, which has weakened dune structures in multiple locations. These factors contribute to ongoing minor overwash, particularly during high tide cycles.
Tuesday's Weather Outlook
The forecast for Tuesday, October 14, indicates that challenging conditions will linger. Strong northwest winds are expected, with sustained speeds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts approaching 40 mph. Seas will remain rough, with wave heights between six and nine feet.
Officials anticipate that water levels could rise again during the afternoon high tide on Tuesday, potentially causing further minor flooding. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 60s to low 70s during the day before dropping into the low 60s overnight.
Community Impacts and Continued Monitoring
The severe weather and resulting road closures have had a direct impact on the community. As a precautionary measure, schools on Hatteras Island were closed on Tuesday, October 14, to ensure the safety of students and staff amid the hazardous road conditions.
Local officials are urging all residents and visitors to remain informed by monitoring weather updates from reliable sources. Travel times across the region may be longer than usual as cleanup efforts continue. The coastal hazards are expected to gradually subside but could persist into Wednesday, affecting multiple tide cycles.
Motorists who encounter sand or water on N.C. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island should reduce their speed and drive with caution. The combination of saltwater and sand can be corrosive to vehicles and create slippery driving conditions.
