Hurricane Erin Aftermath: NC12 partially reopens on OBX. What residents and visitors need to know

HATTERAS ISLAND, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — After days of closures and cleanup from Hurricane Erin, there’s some good news for the Outer Banks: NC Highway 12 is now open and passable on both Pea Island and Hatteras Island, but not without a few conditions.

As of Saturday at noon, the North Carolina Department of Transportation said the road is open for residents, property owners, and workers under Dare County’s staged reentry plan.

For visitors, access to NC12 and Hatteras Island begins on Sunday at 5 a.m.

NCDOT officials are urging everyone to drive carefully, as some areas of the highway still have standing water and sand.

It may not look like much, but officials said saltwater can be damaging to vehicles, and crews are still working in the area. If you see NCDOT workers, please give them space.

Important to know:

• NC12 on the north end of Ocracoke is still closed, but crews are making progress
• Rain is expected Sunday, which could bring additional flooding in already weakened areas

Reentry Schedule:

• 12 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23: Residents, property owners, and certain workers (with proper permits or ID) can return
• 5 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 24: Visitors and the general public can access Hatteras Island, no permit required

Before heading to places like Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, or Hatteras, NCDOT said visitors should confirm reservations with their rental companies/accommodation providers.

Beach Warning:

Double red flags remain posted across Dare County beaches, meaning ocean swimming is not allowed due to dangerous rip currents and rough surf. Violating the swim ban is a misdemeanor. Officials said surfing is allowed, but only with a proper surfboard and leash.

For more information, please click here.

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