The intense nor’easter that hit the Outer Banks this weekend brought dramatic and dangerous conditions, but it was a particular image from NCDOT’s cameras that caught the attention of social media users on Sunday. A white pickup truck was seen seemingly wiped out by rising waves along the N.C. 12 segment on Pea Island, drawing widespread attention and concern about the driver’s fate.
What Happened
While the community was focused on the potential dangers to homes as high tide approached Buxton on Hatteras Island, including one house near collapse, the weather-related flooding along the Outer Banks continued to worsen. On Sunday, segments of N.C. 12 were closed due to overwash and ocean flooding, with dunes being washed away by powerful waves brought on by the nor’easter. N.C. 12 was closed at several locations, including Pea Island between the Marc Basnight Bridge and Rodanthe, and on Cedar Island to the south.
The NCDOT camera, which captured the white pickup truck, showed the driver caught by a wave as the dunes were breached. The truck appeared to be swamped, leading many on social media to wonder about the driver’s safety. Some viewers mistakenly accused the driver of entering a closed road, but the NCDOT clarified that the driver was on the road before it was closed, at the exact moment the dune breached and the wave flooded the area.
The Driver’s Fate
Jamie Kritzer, assistant director of NCDOT communications, clarified that while the truck appeared to be in a perilous situation, the driver was never truly stuck. “It was at that very time when the dune was breached,” Kritzer said, explaining that the driver was able to “floor it” and power through the rising water, reaching higher ground safely. Other drivers in the same area were also caught by the wave but were able to continue without incident.
Moments later, the NCDOT closed the road to prevent further accidents. Kritzer also urged other drivers not to take risks by attempting to cross water-covered roads, pointing out that it only takes a foot of water to move a car.
A Reminder to Stay Safe
While the pickup truck driver was lucky to make it through this close call, NCDOT officials want to remind the public about the dangers of flooding. Even though a few drivers made it through the waves, they emphasized that not every motorist would be so fortunate.
“It’s important that people do not try to cross water-covered roads just because a few vehicles managed to make it through,” Kritzer added. “We want everyone to be careful.”
As the storm continues to impact the area, the NCDOT advises drivers to stay updated on road closures and to avoid traveling on flooded roads. Safety is paramount, and caution is essential when navigating these treacherous conditions.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Driver Caught in Waves During Nor’easter on NC 12: A Close Call on the Outer Banks first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
