North Carolina's Ocracoke Island: Highway Closed, Homes Collapse Due to Erosion
A stretch of North Carolina Highway 12 on Ocracoke Island has been closed, and ferry services suspended, due to ocean overwash. The closures follow a series of house collapses in Buxton, with five homes falling on Tuesday and another overnight. No injuries were reported.
The recent collapses are not isolated incidents. A 2024 report revealed that 750 oceanfront structures in North Carolina are at risk from erosion. Since 2020, 18 privately owned houses on Seashore beaches have collapsed, with the latest six due to Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda. The homes, once supported by high stilts, were battered by waves and pulled into the surf.
Authorities warn that more collapses are possible given current ocean conditions. Visitors are urged to avoid the affected area. Solutions to prevent further incidents include beach reinforcement with dredged sand or rock, or using funding to buy out and move or demolish threatened homes.
The closures and house collapses highlight the ongoing threat of erosion along North Carolina's Outer Banks. While no injuries were reported, the potential danger to both residents and visitors is clear. Officials are exploring solutions to mitigate the risk and protect both lives and property.
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