BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Following heavy rain and flooding across the region on Monday, motorists are urged to use online tools to check for road closures and detours before traveling.

Floodwaters have caused widespread damage and road closures, creating dangerous situations on several routes.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has assessed the damage and is working to clear roads, but many areas remain unsafe for travel. To stay informed about which roads are closed or impassable, residents and travelers are encouraged to visit drivenc.gov , where they can view real-time maps of road conditions, detours, and other important updates.

Several highways, including US-17 and NC-133, remain impassable due to flood waters.

Brunswick County officials have also provided residents with a real-time tool to monitor road conditions and road closures.

Brunswick County says it’s difficult to say when the floodwaters will recede to allow people to pass, and even then, roads still need to be inspected to make sure they’re safe to drive on. Several roads in the county have been damaged and will need to be repaired before they can be driven on again. NCDOT is currently assessing roads and bridges that aren’t currently flooded.

Authorities continue to stress the importance of safety when dealing with flooded areas. Drivers are reminded to follow the rule “Turn around, don’t drown.” Just six inches of rushing water can knock a person off their feet, and a foot can sweep away a vehicle.

A Southport man died after he drove onto a flooded road and his vehicle was swept away.