Looking Bad for January Birding on the Coast

Hurricane, or "Superstorm" Sandy did a number on the northeast coast at the end of October, and its effects linger still.  But it also made its mark on my beloved Outer Banks birding spots.  And news reports don't look good for a visit out there this winter.  From what I can glean the state DOT is having trouble keeping NC-12 open to Hatteras, which means Pea Island Wildlife Refuge is not accessible for most vehicles: I am not even clear that's it's open to the public.  My expected visit is a mere eight weeks away and road and bridge conditions don't strike me as safe nor secure.  So either I postpone or retool my visit to other locations.  And maybe I rent a Jeep!  Will keep watching...