Buxton, North Carolina: Another Beachfront Home Collapses Amid Ongoing Erosion

A two-story beachfront stilt home in Buxton, North Carolina, has collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean, marking a significant event in the region’s ongoing battle with coastal erosion. This incident represents the 12th home collapse along the Outer Banks in the past five years, a troubling trend that has sparked concern among local residents and officials.

The recently collapsed home was unoccupied at the time, and its fall has resulted in debris scattered across nearby sand, prompting cleanup operations led by staff from the Cape Hatteras National Seashore alongside a private contractor. Cleanup efforts are crucial in order to mitigate safety hazards in the area.

Previous Collapses and Increasing Erosion

This latest collapse adds to a worrying statistic, as previous incidents have primarily occurred in the village of Rodanthe, located approximately 25 minutes from Buxton. Local leaders, including Dare County Planning Director Noah Gillman, have voiced concerns over the rapid increase in erosion in Buxton, attributing the latest structural failure to ongoing beach erosion exacerbated by rising sea levels and severe weather events.

Notably, Hurricane Erin has been cited as a tipping point, leading to notable declines in coastal structure integrity. Prior to this hurricane, the National Park Service had reported that 36 structures had been decertified for occupancy due to coastal damage, highlighting the extensive risks faced by properties in this region.

Beach Erosion Rates and Precautions

The ongoing incidence of coastal erosion has resulted in dramatic losses for home and property owners; in some regions, beach erosion can reach more than 10 feet annually. Consequently, many homes now reside within an intertidal zone, exposed during low tide, increasing the likelihood of future incidents.

As a precaution, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore has advised visitors to steer clear of affected beaches due to significant amounts of dangerous debris that can pose risks. Following this event, a beach safety closure that was already enforced at the northern end of Buxton may need to expand due to the introduction of new debris.

The Bigger Picture: Climate Change and Local Response

This incident is part of a larger pattern that aligns with reports connecting climate change to increased hurricane intensity and coastal erosion. Experts have suggested that strengthened coastal defenses, such as hardened structures like jetties, could potentially reduce further damage, though these structures remain banned in North Carolina.

As homes in the area continue to succumb to the ocean, local leaders are advocating for discussions on long-term sustainable solutions. In recent years, the National Park Service has taken action by purchasing and demolishing two vacant properties to decrease the risks associated with erosion.

Additionally, the recent storm development prior to the home collapse resulted in heavy rain, coastal flooding, and strong winds that have likely impacted the area’s stability. Given the increasing threat of coastal erosion, homeowners are being encouraged to consider relocating as a possible solution to ongoing risks posed by the ocean.

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