Carolina Beach, a coastal community in North Carolina, has been left devastated by the historic flooding caused by Potential Tropical Cyclone 8. In an unprecedented event that occurs once every 1,000 years, the area received over 20 inches of rain since Sunday night, resulting in life-threatening conditions and extensive damage.

The impact of Potential Tropical Cyclone 8 became evident as the sun rose on Tuesday morning. The storm, which brought heavy rain, strong winds, and the risk of tornadoes, flooding, and power outages, particularly affected southeastern North Carolina, including the coastal communities. Carolina Beach, along with Southport and St. James in Brunswick County, bore the brunt of the relentless rainfall.

Carolina Beach, in particular, experienced a record-breaking 20.81 inches of rain since Sunday, leading to severe life-threatening flooding comparable to an extremely rare 1,000-year flood event. Flood watches and flash flood warnings were issued for several counties, although they have now expired. However, authorities warn of the potential for flooded roads and standing water, urging caution from residents and drivers.

The storm also unleashed powerful winds, with speeds reaching up to 30 mph. These strong gusts, combined with saturated grounds, caused numerous trees to topple, resulting in power outages across eastern North Carolina. Reports of downed trees were received from various locations, including Raleigh, where Whitman Road was blocked by a fallen tree, leaving residents without power.

Roads throughout the region were also severely affected by the flooding, making them impassable in many areas. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NC DOT) announced the closure of Interstate 95 North at Exit 77 (Hodges Chapel Road) due to floodwaters. However, this section has since reopened. Similarly, NC 12 at Ocracoke Island remains closed until further assessment can be made during Wednesday morning's high tide. The NC DOT is actively deploying crews to barricade vulnerable locations and minimize the risks posed by high water.

Brunswick County, in particular, encountered major flooding, leading to a curfew being issued for unincorporated areas until Tuesday morning. Even after the curfew is lifted, floodwaters will continue to pose threats given the ongoing rain forecast for Tuesday. Southport also suffered from road washouts, rendering major roads impassable.

Local businesses along the coast have been heavily impacted, with many unable to open their doors on Tuesday due to floodwaters. The Starlite Inn in Carolina Beach reported zero guests, while a nearby sushi bar struggled with extensive flooding. The Southport Police Department has urged residents to stay off the roads, highlighting dangerous conditions and major road washouts.

As the cleanup efforts continue, it is vital for individuals in the affected areas to exercise caution and avoid driving through flooded roads. WRAL News+ and 101.5FM in the Triangle region are providing traffic updates to help motorists navigate safely through the aftermath of this unprecedented storm.

With the possibility of further rain, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and prepared as they face the ongoing challenges of recovery and rebuilding in the aftermath of this historic flooding event.