Oak Island activates emergency operations center, closes bridge due to severe weather

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) –The Town of Oak Island has activated its Emergency Operations Center and closed several key roads and bridges due to heavy flooding caused by Potential Tropical Cyclone #8, according to a release from town officials on Monday.

Both lanes of the G.V. Barbee Bridge have been closed, and all traffic entering or leaving the island is being redirected to the Swains Cut Bridge at E.F. Middleton Boulevard, the town’s statement said. Additionally, East Oak Island Drive at SE 51st Street and the northbound lane of Long Beach Road have also been closed.

In response to the flooding, the Oak Island Fire Department has deployed its High Water Rescue Vehicle to conduct evacuations as necessary.

Town officials urged residents and visitors to exercise caution and avoid travel on and off the island.