N.C. 12 has sustained major damage from hurricanes and nor'easters—including Irene, Isabel, Sandy, Arthur, and Nor’Ida—resulting in repeated road relocations, overwash, and dune loss. These events highlight the corridor’s vulnerability and the need for resilient solutions.
Several projects have since strengthened this area, including the 2014 Mirlo Beach Renourishment, the 2019 Basnight Bridge, the 2017 New Inlet temporary bridge, and the 2022 Rodanthe “Jug Handle” Bridge.