(Image: Amey)
The A78 is to remain closed in both directions between Skelmorlie and Largs following significant damage to the carriageway and sea wall during Storm Boelo.
The road was closed early on Sunday morning after high winds, heavy rain and large waves overtopped the sea defences south of Skelmorlie.
Amey said that inspections of the road, which connects Greenock and Prestwick, have found widespread cracking and displacement of the road surface along the seaward side of the carriageway, together with a section of sea wall that has been washed away.
Debris and standing water are also affecting other parts of the route.
Damage on the A78 Skelmorlie (Image: Amey)
Amey said that an initial engineering assessment recommends that the closure stays in place until a detailed inspection can be completed.
Further structural and geotechnical assessments are planned for Monday, with conditions on Sunday "too severe" to allow a full inspection.
A signed diversion is in place. Southbound traffic should leave the A78 at Port Glasgow and follow the A761 through Kilmacolm to Johnstone, then the A737 to Kilbirnie, the B780 and B777, and the A760 to rejoin the A78 at Largs. Northbound traffic should follow the same route in reverse. Road users should allow extra time for their journeys.
Access for residents within the closure is being maintained, and access for emergency vehicles will be maintained throughout, Amey said.
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A spokesperson for Amey said: "The unprecedented severe weather caused by Storm Boelo has resulted in serious damage to the A78 at Skelmorlie, with the sea wall breached in places and the road surface lifted and cracked along the shore.
"Our priority is the safety of road users, and the road will stay closed until our engineers have been able to inspect the full extent of the damage and confirm it is safe. We will share a further update once we have a clearer picture of the repairs needed and how long they are likely to take.
"We appreciate how disruptive this closure is to the communities of Largs, Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay, and we are grateful for the patience and understanding of residents and road users for their patience while we undertake an urgent repair."