News Summary
Authorities in Carova, North Carolina, are warning the public about the dangers of using inflatable rafts on windy days. Strong west winds are causing increased incidents of individuals becoming stranded far from shore, highlighting the need for safety awareness. Recently, two boys struggled to return to land after strong winds swept them away while fishing. The community is reminded to monitor local weather patterns and exercise caution when enjoying water activities, especially as summer approaches.
Carova, North Carolina – Carova Fire and Rescue authorities are urging the public to exercise caution when using inflatable rafts on days with west winds due to a rise in incidents involving individuals stranded far from shore. Rescue teams frequently respond to distress calls involving people struggling to return to land after drifting into hazardous waters.
Fire Department Chief Jay Laughmiller has highlighted the dangers posed by strong winds, which can quickly carry inflatable rafts away from the shoreline. Many stranded individuals find themselves between a half-mile to a mile off the coast, making it difficult to swim back against the current. Alongside inflatable rafts, incidents have also been reported involving other flotation devices, such as stand-up paddleboards and kayaks.
During peak tourist seasons, the Carova rescue team receives distress calls at least once per week. One recent case involved two 14-year-old boys who took a canoe out for fishing purposes but found returning to shore nearly impossible due to rising winds. Such incidents underscore the necessity of understanding local weather patterns, particularly the fact that winds in the Outer Banks tend to calm in the morning but typically increase significantly after 1 PM.
Rescue workers caution that when wind speeds exceed 10 to 15 mph, accompanied by white caps on the water, returning to shore using flotation devices becomes considerably more challenging. To enhance safety, it is advised that anyone planning to use inflatable rafts or similar devices should have someone monitor from the shore ready to assist if they run into trouble.
Fire Incident at Tomato Patch Restaurant
In another incident, a fire erupted at the Tomato Patch restaurant in Corolla on July 27, 2025, around 4:15 AM. Firefighters responded quickly as smoke and flames were visible from the roof. Local fire crews initiated a defensive firefighting attack to manage the blaze, which took approximately two hours to contain. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, nor was there damage to surrounding structures.
The cause of the fire at the Tomato Patch is still under investigation. Around the region, Currituck Fire-EMS coordinated with Corolla Fire & Rescue volunteers to manage the situation effectively, receiving mutual aid from Carova Beach Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Duck Fire Department, and Southern Shores Volunteer Fire Department.
Continued Community Safety Awareness
Considering the rising number of incidents on the water and the challenges faced by emergency responders, community officials stress the importance of public awareness regarding water safety, particularly in relation to offshore winds. Additionally, coordination among local fire and rescue organizations highlights the community’s commitment to ensuring safety for its residents and tourists alike.
As beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts prepare for the summer months in Carova and Corolla, both the fire and rescue teams emphasize taking preventive measures while enjoying water activities. Understanding weather patterns and heeding warnings can significantly reduce risks, ensuring a safer environment for all visitors and residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
NWS Issues Warning for Life-Threatening Rip Currents in North Carolina
Warning Issued for Dangerous Rip Currents in Virginia Beach
Local Man Injured in Traffic Accident in Currituck County
Newborn Wild Foal Rescued from Canal in Carova
Outer Banks Community Foundation Awards $57,500 in Grants
Additional Resources
- CBS 17 News
- Wikipedia: Inflatable Rafts
- MSN Weather
- Google Search: Outer Banks Weather Safety
- AirMed&Rescue
- Google Scholar: Water Safety Rescue Incident
- WITN News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fire Safety
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
