Another coastal storm is expected to hit the Outer Banks Saturday afternoon, putting the newly repaired section of North Carolina Highway 12 on Pea Island to the test. The road, which was rebuilt after a September nor’easter that caused roughly 1,000 feet of damage near the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, is a vital link for residents and tourists traveling between Hatteras, Ocracoke and the mainland.
Recent repairs and current concerns
In late September, a powerful nor’easter washed out a portion of Highway 12, cutting off road access to Hatteras Island for nearly a week. “We could be right back at square one,” said Jamie Kritzer, assistant director of communications for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Kritzer explained that crews worked around the clock to restore the road, first using a one‑lane gravel detour and then completing a brand‑new asphalt surface with a reinforced dune line for most of October.
“I think anytime you have back‑to‑back storms like this, and you’ve just completed some really difficult work to get that road back reopened, it is definitely a concern among us as well as the residents and visitors there that this could happen again,” Kritzer added.
Preparedness measures
NCDOT is urging neighbors and visitors to prepare for possible closures of Highway 12. Equipment has already been staged on Pea Island, Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island so crews can respond quickly if the storm damages the roadway again. The emergency ferry, which was activated during the September storm for the first time since 2013, will also be on standby.
“The emergency ferry is certainly something that we will have ready,” Kritzer said.
Local reactions
Residents on Hatteras Island are already bracing for the possibility of being cut off. Brian Harris, a longtime Buxton resident, expressed a bleak outlook: “I don’t think there’s a prayer’s chance of that road being there. I think that’s the general consensus here on the island too.” His comments reflect the anxiety many islanders feel when a single road can isolate their community.
Safety advice for travelers
Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution on Highway 12, especially during high‑tide cycles. If the road is closed, motorists should not attempt to bypass barricades for their own safety. Real‑time road condition updates are available at DriveNC.gov and on the NCDOT Highway 12 Facebook page.
Dare County has also posted safety information on its Facebook page, reminding residents and visitors to monitor local alerts and to follow any evacuation or road‑closure instructions.
Why the road matters
Highway 12 is the lifeline for the Outer Banks, supporting tourism, local businesses, emergency services and daily commutes. Its recent reconstruction, featuring a reinforced dune line, was intended to make the route more resilient against the region’s frequent storms. The current weather system tests that resilience, and the NCDOT’s proactive stance aims to keep the community connected while safeguarding lives.
As the storm approaches, the focus remains on preparedness, clear communication, and swift response. Residents are urged to stay informed, heed official guidance, and prioritize safety over convenience.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
