The NCDOT is reminding motorists not to travel in areas south of US-264 and east of I-73/I-74.
The NCDOT is asking motorists to avoid major roads, especially I-40 so emergency crews can deliver supplies.
“These routes are vital for recovery efforts,” a release read. “Excess traffic, and stalled or wrecked vehicles can become a major hindrance to recovery efforts.”
Many major state roads are closed due to flooding including: I-95 South of Dunn and I-40 starting at Duplin and Pender counties leading into Wilmington.
The NCDOT has a list of all roads closed due to flooding or damages, along with recommended routes for travel. That list is available here.
They are also reminding motorists to rely on real time traffic apps/reports vs GPS. Traditional GPS systems will NOT know if a road has been closed or is impassable.
We encourage motorists to use real-time travel apps instead of traditional GPS units as the apps will provide the most up to date travel routes. Use https://t.co/Pbux7IDYBi for road closures, detours and more. #FlorenceNC pic.twitter.com/sYxHx14GqW
— NCDOT (@NCDOT) September 19, 2018
For those trying to head back to Wilmington, Stay Put!
“At this time no safe, stable or reliable route exists for the public to get to and from Wilmington,” said the NCDOT.
All lanes of US 70 near Neuse Sport Shop in Kinston are closed due to rising food waters.
About 750 roads remain closed (down from 2,200), including sections of I-40 & I-95. US 258 in Kinston was closed Thurs due to flooding. Drivers should plan for US 70 to be closed as the Neuse continues to rise. US 421 at the New Hanover Co line is now closed. #FlorenceNC pic.twitter.com/e1oGxoH968
— NCDOT (@NCDOT) September 20, 2018
ALERT: Due to rising water from the Neuse River, it is imminent that all lanes of U.S. 70 will close soon near Neuse Sport Shop.
PLEASE RT.
— Bryan Hanks (@BCHanks) September 20, 2018
Onslow County evacuees are also encouraged to hold off on returning home due to flooding and damages. According to Onslow COunty’s Emergency Services, hundreds of people are still being housed in shelters.