Tragic Collapse of Homes in Buxton, NC Amid Hurricane Fears

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News Summary

On October 11, 2025, five oceanfront homes in Buxton, NC, collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean as Hurricane threats loomed offshore. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, but the local community remains on edge. The North Carolina Department of Transportation closed Highway 12 due to hazardous conditions, and residents are implementing emergency measures to prevent further erosion. The area has a troubling history with home collapses, driven by severe weather and rising sea levels, raising concerns for the future safety of its residents.

Tragic Collapse of Homes in Buxton, NC Amid Hurricane Fears

On Tuesday, October 11, 2025, the coastal community of Buxton, North Carolina experienced a shocking event as five oceanfront homes dramatically collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean within just a 60-minute timeframe. This devastating occurrence came on the heels of Hurricane threats from Humberto and Imelda swirling offshore, though neither storm made direct landfall on the U.S. coastline.

A Harrowing Situation

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of these calamitous collapses, a relief for residents who had already been on edge. The mood in Buxton, however, is understandably tense as the community braces for what Mother Nature has in store. The North Carolina Department of Transportation took precautionary steps by closing Highway 12 on nearby Ocracoke Island due to high winds and treacherous ocean overwash from Hurricane Imelda. Additionally, ferry services between Ocracoke and Hatteras Island were suspended until Thursday morning due to safety concerns.

Recent History of Collapses

Just weeks prior to this latest disaster, Buxton had already seen nine of its homes collapse under similar circumstances. Few will forget the harrowing image of a residence tumbling into the sea on October 2, a direct result of Hurricane Erin’s wrath. The turbulence didn’t stop there, though. The region faced worsening conditions with a powerful nor’easter bringing heavy rain, damaging winds, and coastal flooding to an area that is no stranger to such dangers.

The Community’s Response

Residents and vacationers in Buxton are closely monitoring the shoreline, fearing more homes could succumb to the overwhelming powers of nature. Drone footage captured the dire situation, showcasing additional homes precariously perched at the edge of an eroding beach, teetering on the brink of disaster. In an attempt to protect remaining properties, families are rallying together with contractors to implement emergency measures. Efforts include adding supports and sandbags in hopes of staving off further erosion and collapses.

Heavy Rain and Tidal Flooding Threats

The forecast is grim, with significant flooding warnings issued for the area as king tides coincide with expected rains of 2 to 4 inches. Tidal flooding could reach between 2 to 4 feet in low-lying regions, raising alarms among many residents. Numerous homes in the area, including the beloved family-owned Harper House, have been deemed uninhabitable due to structural damage caused by persistent erosion and ocean flooding.

Erosion Woes on the Outer Banks

For years, the Outer Banks have been grappling with some of the highest erosion rates on the East Coast, a troubling trend exacerbated by rising sea levels linked to climate change. In a staggering statistic, a total of 18 privately-owned homes have collapsed on Seashore beaches since 2020, leading to discussions around proactive measures. Suggestions include beach shoring courses of action and potential buyouts for threatened structures, ensuring safety for residents and visitors alike.

The Road Ahead

As the sun sets over the horizon in Buxton, the community remains resilient amid mounting challenges. The National Weather Service has issued alerts for coastal flooding and powerful winds, forecasting gusts that could reach up to 40 mph. With each rising tide and each passing storm, Buxton’s residents hold their breath, awaiting the next chapter in a saga of nature’s fierce beauty and the toll it can take on life by the sea.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tragedy Strikes: Ninth Home Collapses in Rodanthe, N.C.
Beach Emergency in Cape Hatteras: Homes Collapsing Into the Ocean
Coastal Home in Buxton Falls Victim to Erosion
Southern Shores Welcomes Historic Landmark ‘Drop Anchor’
Nor’easter Disrupts Travel in the Outer Banks, North Carolina
Highway 12 Reopens on Hatteras Island After Repairs
Powerful Nor’easter Causes Destruction in North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Coastal Erosion Leads to Home Collapses in Buxton, N.C.
Nor’easter Causes Road Closures and Coastal Damage in North Carolina’s Outer Banks
N.C. Highway 12 Reopens in Hatteras; Ocracoke Island Highway Still Closed

Additional Resources

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.