Snow’s Cut Bridge to remain closed

CAROLINA BEACH, NC – Eighteen hours have made a huge negative difference to our situation. 24 inches of rain and storm surge have combined to overcome the stormwater systems of both Carolina and Kure Beach. US Hwy 421 currently is completely covered from St. Joseph St. to Alabama Ave. with some areas being more than 12 Inches deep and is only passable in elevated emergency vehicles. The Stormwater Division has all emergency pumps at the lake pumping at full capacity. Currently the tide is low. However, these problems will get worse with the expected heavy rainfall and the upcoming 1:37 p.m. high tide.

The Bridge WILL NOT be open today except to emergency personnel-both town’s sewer systems are strained due to infiltration and cannot handle any additional load. For those individuals that did not evacuate-DO NOT open your sewer cleanout because:
1. This is illegal and,
2. This will likely release sewage into you yard.

Communication issues continue to be a challenge. Verizon has improved their system, but it is still not at 100%. AT&T is still not working in the area. Cellular phone service has been intermittent, landlines to Town Offices are not 100%, and communication has been through the Emergency Services Radios. Internet services are down, while phone service is spotty in the area.

There continue to be gusty winds, but with less intensity and extraordinary rain amounts. Duke Energy crews are working on the power system as weather allows. However, rain bands continue to hamper their efforts. They have successfully restored approximately 15% of power to the island, but that too is sporadic and not consistent.

The Police Department continues to STRONGLY ENFORCE the curfew for the citizens who
remained during the storm, and efforts will be augmented during the night by additional law
enforcement personnel, if needed. With the significant water issues, no one is leaving their
home. For our citizens who evacuated, please recognize that the Town will continue to protecty our property and any issues will be reported in these updates. There have been NO
REPORTS of looting to law enforcement or emergency services in either Carolina or Kure
Beach at this time. PLEASE do not listen to rumors being spread.

To those who evacuated, travel is extremely hazardous and NOT RECOMMENDED. If you are
within New Hanover County, stay where you are. The roads on the island will get worse with the rising tide, and the sewer system will continue to get more stressed. THE BRIDGE WILL NOT BE OPENED TODAY. Carolina and Kure Beach town leadership will meet again tonight at 6:00 p.m.to evaluate the situation, and we will post an update following that meeting.

There are extreme supply issues throughout the area in regards to gasoline, power, and food
that you should review as you plan your return in the future. DO NOT start the trip until you
know that your route is safe and navigable. In addition to supply shortages and cresting rivers on all major routes into the area, you should bring supplies for a significant period of time. Do not count on the supplies at your home as they may be compromised by flood water.

Also, please remember to bring your 2018 Town Identification Card (TIC) with you for re-entry to the island. If you do not have a 2018 TIC, one can be obtained at the mobile distribution unit that will be set up in Masonboro Commons (6400 Carolina Beach Rd.) once the bridge has opened to residents and property/business owners. You will need a picture id and proof of ownership/residence in Carolina Beach (i.e. utility or tax bill showing CB address, lease agreement, etc.) If you stayed on the island and do not have a 2-3 day food/water supply, please begin rationing as we may not have support on this issue for a while.

The Town is taking pictures and videos of the recent flooding and will post on our Facebook
page later today.

Please stay safe and do not drive through any standing water as this can be a deadly situation.

If you have any questions, please contact Town Hall at 910-458-2999.