At 12:00 P.M., N.C. Highway 12 on northern Ocracoke Island has officially reopened, following temporary closure due to ocean overwash during high tide.

Despite the reopening, caution is advised as sand and saltwater remain on the road.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) issued an update at 7:30 A.M., announcing the closure of N.C. Highway 12 on northern Ocracoke Island. This closure was prompted by ocean overwash during Saturday morning’s high tide.

Moreover, the Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry temporarily halted operations until the highway was deemed safe for travel. However, ferry services have resumed normal operations as of the 1:00 P.M. departure from Hatteras.

Reports of overwash along the highway, particularly between the NPS Pony Pens and the Ocracoke-Hatteras ferry terminal, have been recurrent during recent high tide cycles.

It’s essential for travelers to remain vigilant, as the possibility of additional overwash during subsequent high tides cannot be ruled out.

Looking ahead, the next high tides on Ocracoke Island are expected at approximately 7:45 P.M. on Saturday, Feb 24, and 8:00 A.M. on Sunday, Feb 25.

Stay tuned for further updates.