Buxton, September 28, 2025
News Summary
In Buxton, North Carolina, an unoccupied house collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean, becoming the 12th house to fall victim to severe beach erosion over the past five years. The National Park Service has issued warnings about debris on the beach and recommended avoiding the site for safety. As coastal erosion accelerates, averaging over 10 feet annually, local authorities are urging residents to consider relocating their homes. The ongoing battle against coastal erosion continues to impact communities along the Outer Banks, as cleanup efforts are underway following the recent collapse.
Buxton, North Carolina – An unoccupied house at 46227 Tower Circle Road collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean on Tuesday afternoon, marking the 12th house to collapse along the Outer Banks in the past five years due to severe beach erosion. The incident has prompted the National Park Service (NPS) to issue a warning regarding debris on the beach at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Following the collapse, the NPS advised visitors to stay away from the beach and avoid the water near the site to prevent accidents with any debris that remains in the area. Additionally, a pre-existing beach safety closure from the north end of Buxton to off-road vehicle ramp 43 may need to be expanded based on the size of the debris field.
The recent collapse is a result of ongoing challenges with coastal erosion, which in the area can average more than 10 feet per year. Areas that once were positioned away from the ocean are now facing increasing vulnerability, especially after a coastal storm that brought heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds to the North Carolina Outer Banks. Homes are particularly at risk during such storms, as noted by park officials.
In light of the increasing risk, the NPS has encouraged homeowners to consider relocating their properties. Officials revealed that they are working with Dare County and have previously demolished two vacant properties in Rodanthe, utilizing funds from a congressional program allocated for coastal challenges. A report addressing ongoing coastal erosion issues was submitted to Congress by the NPS in December 2024.
Local experts highlight the impermanence of beach nourishment as a long-term solution to erosion, pointing out that several oceanfront homes are in precarious positions. The location of the collapsed house was notably less than a mile from the well-known Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, which itself was relocated inland in 1999 due to similar erosion concerns.
Cleanup efforts are currently in progress, with NPS staff actively working on removing debris from the shoreline to ensure safety for visitors and maintain the environmental integrity of the area. The Outer Banks remains a focal point in discussions about climate change and its impacts on coastal communities, particularly concerning rising sea levels.
Background Information
In the last five years, the Outer Banks has witnessed a series of home collapses, including five in just over one month, with the last offensive collapse occurring in November prior to this incident. These occurrences underscore the mounting pressure that coastal erosion places on property owners and the local environment.
The NPS’s ongoing efforts to manage the implications of coastal erosion include not only removing collapsed structures but also coordinating with local authorities to develop strategies for future resilience. The increasing instability of oceanfront properties raises concerns for residents, as many homes remain dangerously close to collapse.
Conclusion
The recent house collapse in Buxton is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against coastal erosion faced by communities along the Outer Banks. As cleanup efforts continue, the NPS and local residents are adapting to the changes brought on by nature, seeking solutions to mitigate the risks associated with climate change.
FAQs
What incident occurred in Buxton, North Carolina?
On Tuesday afternoon, an unoccupied house at 46227 Tower Circle Road collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean. This incident marks the 12th house to collapse along the Outer Banks in the past five years due to ongoing beach erosion.
What safety measures has the NPS implemented after the collapse?
The National Park Service has issued a warning about debris on the beach and advised visitors to avoid the beach and stay out of the water near the collapse site to prevent accidents. A pre-existing beach safety closure may need to be expanded based on the debris field.
What has contributed to the recent house collapses along the Outer Banks?
Coastal erosion in the area can average more than 10 feet per year, contributing to the collapse of homes that were initially built away from the ocean. The recent collapse followed a coastal storm that affected the area with heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds.
How is the NPS addressing the challenges of coastal erosion?
The NPS is working with Dare County and has demolished two vacant properties in Rodanthe using funds from a congressional program. They have also submitted a report to Congress in December 2024 about ongoing coastal erosion challenges.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WRAL News
- Wikipedia: Coastal Erosion
- CNN
- Google Search: North Carolina Coastal Erosion
- ABC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coastal Communities and Erosion
- 13 News Now
- Google News: Outer Banks House Collapse
- USA Today
- Google Scholar: Coastal Erosion Impacts
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.
