High winds force Cherry Branch ferry schedule cuts as coastal low moves through

CRAVEN COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) — Gusty winds from a coastal low-pressure system disrupted travel on eastern North Carolina waterways Wednesday, prompting service reductions on a key river crossing.

Officials at the Cherry Branch Ferry Terminal cut operations down to one boat crossing the Neuse River each hour instead of the standard two as wind speeds picked up across the river.

Commuters and residents who rely on the Cherry Branch to Minnesott Beach route kept a close watch on schedules, knowing a full suspension forces drivers into a lengthy detour around the river.

“It’s easier for me to get over the river than to have to drive all the way around to say if I want to go to the beach or a festival or something,” commuter Dawn said. “When the ferries are running, I get notices on my phone so I know when they’re coming and going. So I try to plan around that... I do have family that live on the other side, so if we’re getting together I plan accordingly.”

While schedule reductions can cause travel headaches, coastal residents said handling inclement weather comes with the territory.

Area resident Glen Dykstra said living in North Carolina and riding out past hurricanes taught him to take precautions early.

“We’ve been through hurricanes before out here, so we know how fast things can change,” Dykstra said. “We batten down the hatches, put away the outdoor furniture, and secure anything that could blow around. You just have to be prepared.”

Ferry management said crews are monitoring wind gusts and water levels departure by departure to determine whether remaining runs can continue safely.

Travelers are encouraged to check the North Carolina Department of Transportation Ferry Division’s real-time feeds for route status updates before heading to the terminal.