This week’s winter storm has led to the temporary suspension of several ferry routes in eastern North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The storm, which has brought significant snow and harsh weather conditions to the region, has forced the NCDOT to halt operations on key ferry routes to ensure safety for both passengers and crew members.
The Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry route, a vital connection between Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island, will remain suspended until 5:30 a.m. Thursday due to inclement weather. The suspension is a precautionary measure as snow has accumulated in the area, particularly at the Hatteras ferry dock, making the route unsafe for travel. Additionally, the Swan Quarter-Ocracoke and Cedar Island-Ocracoke ferry routes are also temporarily closed, with operations expected to resume at 8:05 a.m. Thursday. These routes are crucial for transportation to Ocracoke Island, a popular destination, and the suspension is expected to impact both local residents and visitors.
The Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach ferry, which connects the eastern and western banks of the Neuse River, is also temporarily out of service. The ferry will not operate until 7:05 a.m. Thursday, as the storm has made travel conditions too hazardous to maintain service. Similarly, the Bayview-Aurora ferry route will be suspended until just after 6 a.m. Thursday. These suspensions reflect the ongoing challenges posed by the winter weather across the region.
NCDOT has been monitoring weather conditions closely and is using its web cams to assess the impact of the storm. The presence of significant snow on the ground, especially around the ferry docks, has contributed to the decision to temporarily shut down ferry services. Travelers are advised to check for updates and plan accordingly as the NCDOT continues to assess the situation and work toward restoring normal ferry operations once the storm passes.
