Cape Hatteras National Seashore urges caution on roads and beaches ahead of potential impacts from Tropical Storm Debby

Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) is urging caution on roads and beaches over the next two to three days, due to the potential for multiple days of heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Storm Debby. Additionally, the National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Advisory for eastern North Carolina through 2 p.m. Friday, August 9.

For weather-related updates, visit the National Weather Service’s Newport/Morehead City website.

Road Travel

Low-lying areas of N.C. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island are likely to contain several inches of standing water. Motorists should use caution and slow down.

Travelers should use caution around the hours of high tide along vulnerable areas of N.C. Highway 12 from today, August 7, through at least Friday, August 9, particularly at the northern end of Ocracoke Island, due to the potential for ocean overwash.

Travelers can monitor road conditions at https://drivenc.gov.

Beach Travel

Beach driving conditions are not expected to be favorable at off-road vehicle ramps.

Visitors to Rodanthe should avoid the beach between the north end of Rodanthe and South Shore Drive, due to the potential for small-to-large pieces of house debris on the beach during and after the storm conditions.

Swimming

Dangerous rip currents are forecast to be a threat through this weekend. Swimming is not recommended until conditions improve.

Campgrounds

All Seashore campgrounds are open at this time; however, campers may experience flooding around low-elevation campsites.