SMITHFIELD — People along the Neuse River in eastern North Carolina are still dealing with high water and flooding.

The river was expected to crest last night, but today the water continued to rise.

The projections were for a high-water mark of 22 feet; so far it has been pegged even 6 inches higher.

Residents were cheered, however, by the sight of the sun. Given the torrential rains, however, the accumulation of standing water continues to wash out roads. Some people couldn't resist the urge to get in their cars and see the storm's results for themselves.

Rick Skrovan said it was necessary for his wife to get dressed to go to work a bit earlier than usual so she could wade to the car, but that it wasn't a big deal.

Several Johnston County roads remain closed: Richardson Bridge Road, Williford Road and Devil's Race Track.

In Wayne County, closed roads include Fair Bridge Road, Hood Swamp, East Spring Street and Capps Bridge. The Wayne County roads are expected to remain closed for several days.

The forecast is for the week to start out dry, but with the possibility of rain returning on Wednesday.