Officials predict N.C. 12 will become impassable in sections with the evening’s high tide around 6:10 p.m. Wednesday.

Hurricane Erin made its closest approach to the North Carolina coast this morning, and Highway 12 is feeling its effects. The critical highway remains closed on Hatteras Island, as well as on Ocracoke Island.

NC 12 shut down near the Basnight Bridge over the Oregon Inlet to all southbound traffic as Hurricane Erin makes its closest pass to the Outer Banks.

A storm surge warning was issued by the NWS Newport/Morehead City NC on Tuesday at 1:09 p.m. for Hatteras Island.

Several days of heavy surf and high winds and waves could wash out parts of NC 12, which connects the popular vacation spot to the mainland, the National Weather Service said.

OUTER BANKS, N.C. (WITN) - All lanes of NC 12 are closed on Ocracoke Island between the Northern Ferry Terminal and the National Park Service Pony Pens. Also, all lanes of NC 12 are closed on Hatteras Island from the Marc Basnight Bridge to Hatteras Village.

In a 10 On Your Side interview with Drew Pearson, director of emergency management for Dare County, he shares what he expects the impacts of Hurricane Erin to be on the Outer Banks while talking about the danger of storm surge.

The NWS Newport/Morehead City NC issued an updated tropical storm watch at 10:41 p.m. on Monday in effect until Tuesday at 6:45 a.m. for Hatteras Island.

The NWS Newport/Morehead City NC issued a tropical storm warning at 1:09 p.m. on Tuesday for Hatteras Island. The following information is provided by the NWS:

NC12 at the Marc Basnight Bridge remains closed due to Hurricane Erin, with overwash and deep blown sand on the roadway in several sections. Crews are working to clear the debris, but there is no ETA on reopening the highway.