Buxton, NC, October 21, 2025
News Summary
In Buxton, North Carolina, a house collapsed into the ocean, marking the tenth home collapse this year attributed to rising erosion risks. The unoccupied home, located at 46006 Cottage Avenue, was valued at approximately $500,000. This incident is part of a worrying trend, as there have been 22 home collapses since 2020, largely due to coastal erosion and severe weather. The National Park Service has closed parts of the beach in the area to mitigate risks, raising concerns about the impacts of climate change on coastal communities.
Buxton, NC: Tenth Home Collapses into Ocean Amid Rising Erosion Risks
A house in Buxton, North Carolina, collapsed into the ocean on Saturday night, marking the tenth home collapse in the area this year. The incident occurred at 46006 Cottage Avenue around 7:45 p.m., while the home, valued at around $500,000 and built in 1956, was unoccupied at the time. The homeowner had recently purchased the house in May.
This collapse is noted as the 11th since September 16, with nine homes collapsing earlier this month alone as a result of dangerous surf conditions associated with Hurricane Imelda. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore has reported that other houses in the vicinity remain at risk of similar collapses.
As of now, specific weather conditions have contributed to the urgency of the situation, including a flood advisory, large ocean swells, and predictions of flooding. The National Park Service has taken precautionary measures by closing parts of the beach in Buxton and neighboring Rodanthe due to these risks.
Since 2020, there have been a total of 22 home collapses in Buxton and Rodanthe, primarily attributed to coastal erosion, sea level rise, and severe weather events affecting the Outer Banks. The debris from these collapsed homes can scatter for miles along the shoreline, creating safety hazards for residents and visitors. Currently, the beaches in Buxton have been closed due to damage from erosion that has affected both houses and septic systems.
This most recent collapse brings ongoing concerns regarding climate change and its impact on barrier island communities and coastal development into sharper focus. Prior to this incident, Buxton experienced a two-week period without any home collapses, an unusual respite for the area.
A high surf advisory was in effect during the time of the collapse, with waves predicted to reach up to 9 feet. The ongoing risk of erosion not only raises immediate safety concerns but also fuels discussions about the long-term viability of future developments in vulnerable coastal areas, especially as severe weather events become more frequent.
Summary of Recent Collapses
- Current collapse: 10th home in Buxton this year.
- Incident location: 46006 Cottage Avenue.
- Time: Approximately 7:45 p.m. on Saturday.
- House value: Around $500,000, built in 1956.
- Home was unoccupied at the time of the collapse.
- 11th collapse since September 16.
- Previous collapses mostly due to Hurricane Imelda’s effects.
- Beach closures in Buxton and Rodanthe due to erosion risks.
Context and Ongoing Risks
The issues surrounding coastal erosion and the broader implications of climate change for communities such as Buxton necessitate critical examination. As the region continues to face increased natural threats, responses from local authorities, including the closure of beaches and increased monitoring of potential collapses, are becoming vital to safeguarding both human lives and property.
FAQ
What happened in Buxton, NC?
A house in Buxton, North Carolina, collapsed into the ocean on Saturday night, marking the tenth home collapse in the area this year.
At what time did the collapse occur?
The collapse occurred at 46006 Cottage Avenue around 7:45 p.m.
What are some factors contributing to these collapses?
The collapses are primarily attributed to coastal erosion, sea level rise, and severe weather events impacting the Outer Banks.
Have other measures been taken to ensure safety?
Yes, the National Park Service has closed parts of the beach in Buxton and Rodanthe as a precaution.
Key Features of Recent Collapses
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Collapse count in 2023 | 10 homes |
| Collapse location | Buxton, NC |
| Time of collapse | 7:45 p.m. |
| House value | $500,000 |
| Age of house | Built in 1956 |
| Previous collapses | 11 since September 16 |
| Beach closures | Due to erosion and safety risks |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Oceanfront Homes Continue to Collapse in Buxton, NC
Severe Coastal Erosion Causes Home Collapses in Buxton
Nor’easter Causes Coastal Flooding and Home Threats in Outer Banks
Record House Collapses Along North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Homes in Buxton, NC Collapse Amidst Hurricane Swells
Buxton, North Carolina Faces Multiple Home Collapses
Buxton, N.C. Home Collapse Highlights Erosion Crisis
Nor’easter Threatens Homes in North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Coastal Erosion Claims Nine Homes Along Outer Banks
Buxton Homes Collapse Due to Coastal Erosion Crisis
Additional Resources
- WRAL: Buxton Home Collapse
- CBS 17: Outer Banks Home Collapses
- USA Today: Houses Collapse in Outer Banks
- News Observer: North Carolina Article
- Google Search: Coastal Erosion Impact
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.
