North Carolina coastal storm closes N.C. 12 and disrupts ferries

A nor'easter is causing significant coastal flooding, ocean overwash, and road damage across North Carolina's Outer Banks. The storm has led to the closure of sections of N.C. 12, most notably a 500-foot stretch between the Marc Basnight Bridge and Rodanthe near the Pea Island Visitor Center, where extreme tides undermined and broke the pavement.

In addition to highway damage, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) reported severe overwash on Ocracoke Island and soundside flooding in Hatteras Village. High winds and tidal conditions also forced the temporary suspension of most ferry routes, with only the Southport-Fort Fisher route remaining operational early Friday.

While southern areas of Hatteras Island, such as Buxton, remained relatively stable during recent high tides due to reinforced dunes, officials warn that the storm may persist through Friday. NCDOT crews are waiting for water levels to recede before they can fully assess the extent of the damage and establish a timeline for repairs.