Four More Homes Collapse at Outer Banks Amid Flood Warnings

BREAKING: Four more homes collapsed at the Outer Banks today, bringing the total to 12 houses that have fallen into the ocean in the Buxton community since September 30, 2023. In total, 14 houses have been swept away along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in just four weeks, as severe weather and high surf continue to threaten coastal properties.

Around 10:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Tuesday, two homes at 46002 Ocean Drive and 46223 Tower Circle Road collapsed, according to the National Park Service. Another two houses fell in the afternoon, located at 46003 Ocean Drive and 46016 Cottage Avenue, at approximately 12:45 p.m. and 1 p.m. respectively.

Officials have issued urgent warnings, predicting further collapses as a weather system brings a gale warning, flood warning, and dangerously high surf to the region. The National Park Service has confirmed that two beach closures are now in effect due to the risk of additional oceanfront structures breaking apart or collapsing.

The series of collapses began with a dramatic event on September 30, when six homes fell into the ocean in a single day, with five swept away in less than 45 minutes. This trend has alarmed residents and officials alike, highlighting the increasing vulnerability of coastal properties.

As erosion accelerates due to daily winds, waves, and rising sea levels, homes built several hundred feet from the shore in the 1970s and 1990s are now perilously close to the water. Recent severe weather, including Hurricanes Helene and Erin, has exacerbated the situation, leading to unprecedented collapses in this picturesque yet perilous area.

Local authorities are advising residents and tourists to stay away from the beach and closely monitor updates from the National Park Service. As conditions remain unstable, the possibility of more homes collapsing looms large, making this a critical time for the Outer Banks community.

Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential evacuations as the forecast predicts continued rough weather. With the impacts of climate change becoming increasingly evident, the future of many coastal properties hangs in the balance.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.