The Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) is advising visitors to prepare for hazardous weather conditions and exercise extreme caution along beaches and roadways through Wednesday, Oct. 29. According to the National Weather Service, a coastal low is forecast to bring strong northeasterly winds, large surf, and periods of ocean overwash during this period of severe weather.
Beach Safety
Two beach closures remain in effect due to the presence of dozens of damaged or threatened oceanfront structures that pose significant safety risks. These structures may collapse or break apart, releasing hazardous debris into the surf and onto Seashore beaches. Visitors are urged to stay clear of closed areas and use caution when walking near the shoreline.
In Rodanthe, the beach is closed from East Point Drive south for approximately 0.15 miles to Surfside Drive.
In Buxton, the beach is closed from the northernmost motels and homes south for about 1.5 miles to just north of off-road vehicle ramp 43.
Travel Impacts
Hazardous weather conditions are expected to affect travel along N.C. Highway 12, particularly during high tide.
Visitors are strongly advised to avoid travel several hours before and after each high tide, when ocean overwash and saltwater seepage onto the roadway are most likely. Overwash was already reported in Buxton at 9:00 a.m., roughly three hours before Tuesday’s noon high tide.
Challenging driving conditions are expected near the Pea Island Visitor Center, the north end of Buxton, between Frisco and Hatteras, and near the north end of Ocracoke Island.
Motorists can monitor current road conditions and updates at drivenc.gov.
Off-Road Vehicle Driving
High tides are expected to inundate many east-facing Seashore driving routes, creating unsafe conditions for off-road vehicles. Drivers are urged to avoid beach driving, especially during the hours surrounding high tide.
The Seashore continues to monitor conditions closely and encourages visitors to stay alert to changing weather, heed all posted warnings, and follow guidance from the National Park Service and local authorities to ensure safety during this period of hazardous coastal weather.
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