North Carolina NC 12 Closed Today as Ocean Washes Over Road

Dare County, NC – A powerful coastal storm is battering North Carolina's Outer Banks Thursday, closing part of NC 12 as ocean water washes across the highway and forecasters warn of dangerous flooding, high surf and strong winds.

According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, NC 12 remained closed as of 10 a.m. Thursday between Marc Basnight Bridge and Rodanthe because ocean overwash created unsafe driving conditions. Officials warned motorists not to drive around barricades.

The National Weather Service said the greatest coastal impacts are expected around Thursday evening's 6:30 p.m. high tide and again near the 7 a.m. high tide Friday.

A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect for oceanside areas from Oregon Inlet to Ocracoke, where 2 to 4 feet of inundation above ground level is possible. Other Outer Banks locations could experience 1 to 3 feet of inundation, while soundside areas could see up to about 1 foot.

Forecasters expect northeast winds to continue through Friday, with gusts reaching 40 to 50 mph along portions of the Outer Banks. Isolated power outages and tree damage are possible.

Marine conditions are particularly dangerous. Offshore waves could reach around 20 feet near Cape Hatteras, while 15- to 20-foot seas are possible along other exposed sections of the Outer Banks.

Beach erosion and a high risk of rip currents are expected through Saturday. Forecasters said conditions should begin gradually improving this weekend, although the timing remains uncertain.

Drivers should check DriveNC for the latest NC 12 closure information before traveling.