Petroleum Contamination Closes Cape Hatteras Beach
Erosion Reveals Hazardous Remnants of Former Military Site
In Cape Hatteras, authorities have decided to expand the closure of the beach after **erosion** has led to the exposure of **toxic materials** from an **old military site**. On Thursday morning, park rangers detected a strong odor of **petroleum** along Old Lighthouse Beach, specifically near the **Buxton Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS)**.
Contaminated Soil and Groundwater
The recent erosion, which has washed away several feet of sand, has revealed contaminated soil and groundwater filled with petroleum. This contamination is now **exposed to the beachfront** during low tide and is further disturbed by wave action during high tide, raising concerns about the safety of beachgoers.
Hazardous Infrastructure Exposed
The coastal erosion has uncovered **hazardous remnants** left from Navy and Coast Guard activities, including concrete, rebar, wires, **PVC pipes**, and metal fragments. These remnants are remnants of previous infrastructure and pose both physical and environmental hazards.
Details of the Closure
The precautionary closure now stretches from the **southern end of the beachfront homes** in the village of Buxton to a quarter mile south of the old lighthouse jetties. The closure zone includes the beachfront in front of the southern groin and the **Old Lighthouse Beach parking areas**. Authorities have advised all visitors to the Seashore to **follow the posted signs** at both ends of the closed section and to stay out of the restricted area.
Future Actions
Officials have indicated that the situation is being monitored closely and that the closure area may change in the coming days based on ongoing field observations and assessments. The priority remains to protect the public from any potential hazards arising from this contamination.
Community Impact
The closure of this popular beach spot has raised concerns among locals and visitors, highlighting the ongoing issues related to environmental hazards from past military operations. Cape Hatteras officials are urging everyone to stay informed about safety notices and updates regarding the beach conditions.
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.
