Buxton, North Carolina, October 13, 2025
News Summary
Buxton, North Carolina is currently facing severe challenges as a powerful nor’easter threatens the coastal community, bringing massive waves and significant flooding. The storm has already led to the collapse of several homes, forcing residents to take immediate action to protect their belongings. With further home collapses expected and tourism at risk, the emotional toll on the residents is high as they confront the realities of climate change. This situation is exacerbated by recent hurricanes and king tides, influencing beach erosion across the region.
Buxton, North Carolina is facing unprecedented challenges as a powerful nor’easter threatens to devastate the coastal community, with massive waves and flooding reported on October 12, 2025. Several homes are on the verge of collapse, putting residents on high alert as they prepare for the storm.
Live footage from Buxton shows a particular residence completely surrounded by water, with large waves crashing against the wood pilings supporting the home. On air, part of the home’s balcony collapsed, emphasizing the immediate threat to residents. The storm is expected to reach its peak impact on Saturday and Sunday, with the National Weather Service forecasting wind gusts of up to 40 mph, and 2 to 4 inches of rain along with 2 to 4 feet of tidal flooding.
Since mid-September, a total of nine beachfront homes in Rodanthe and Buxton have already been lost to the sea, and reports indicate that several more homes are precariously close to collapse. Extra supports and boards are currently being utilized in an effort to keep the remaining structures stable amid the rising floodwaters. The situation has drawn significant attention, with many visitors arriving to witness the unfolding disaster.
The worsening coastal situation has also been exacerbated by a series of hurricanes in recent weeks, leading to significant beach erosion. High water levels have been reported as far north as Bowers Beach, Delaware, highlighting the broader impacts of the storm system. The community is currently confronting uninhabitable conditions, with power cut off to homes in vulnerable locations.
As the storm continues to approach, residents like Samantha Stevens and Glen Hancock have been seen risking their safety to salvage furniture and valuables from homes threatened by flooding. The impending collapse of more homes raises concerns for the local architecture and real estate market, which are closely linked to the stability of these beach properties. Buxton relies heavily on tourism, and the destruction of homes could severely impact this vital source of income.
The phenomenon of ‘king tides’, which occur due to the alignment of the earth, moon, and sun, has compounded the ongoing threats in Buxton. As the erosion and flooding continue, many individuals express deep emotional connections to their homes, comparing the experience to witnessing a terminally ill family member endure suffering. The realities of climate change, including rising sea levels and increasing storm severity along the Outer Banks, are acknowledged as contributors to the rapidly changing coastal landscape.
Key Facts Summary
- Powerful nor’easter hitting Buxton, North Carolina as of October 12, 2025.
- Many homes threatened by massive waves and coastal flooding.
- Reports indicate nine beachfront homes have collapsed since mid-September.
- Forecast includes wind gusts up to 40 mph and 2 to 4 feet of tidal flooding.
- Residents concerned about the potential collapse of additional homes.
- Tourism at risk due to the loss and damage of beachfront properties.
FAQ Section
What is happening in Buxton, North Carolina?
Buxton is facing significant threats from a powerful nor’easter, causing massive waves and coastal flooding.
How many homes have collapsed as of October 2025?
Nine beachfront homes in Rodanthe and Buxton have already collapsed into the sea since mid-September.
What is the forecast for the storm?
The storm is expected to bring wind gusts of up to 40 mph and 2 to 4 inches of rain, along with 2 to 4 feet of tidal flooding.
What additional challenges are affecting Buxton?
The situation is exacerbated by a series of hurricanes and king tides, which contribute to severe beach erosion.
How is the local community responding to the threats?
Residents are taking measures to salvage furniture from threatened homes while also facing concerns about the potential loss of more houses.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Buxton, North Carolina |
| Storm Type | Nor’easter |
| Home Losses | Nine beachfront homes collapsed |
| Storm Impact Dates | October 12, 2025 |
| Forecasted Wind Speed | Up to 40 mph |
| Forecasted Rainfall | 2 to 4 inches |
| Forecasted Tidal Flooding | 2 to 4 feet |
| Community Concerns | Potential further home collapses and impacts on tourism |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Sections of NC 12 Closed Due to Ocean Overwash in Outer Banks
High Surf Advisory and Evacuations in Outer Banks Due to Hurricane Erin
Coastal Storm Expected to Impact North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Coastal Flood Warning Issued for Northern Outer Banks
High Wind Warning Issued for Northern Outer Banks, NC
Ocracoke Island Highway Closure Due to Severe Weather
Severe Erosion Crisis Hits Buxton, North Carolina
Nor’easter Threatens East Coast with Coastal Flooding and High Winds
Coastal Erosion Causes Collapse of Homes in Buxton
Severe Erosion Causes House Collapses in Outer Banks
Additional Resources
- Fox Weather: Live Video of Home Collapse in Buxton, North Carolina
- News Observer: North Carolina News
- News Nation: New Jersey Declares State of Emergency
- CBS 17: Buxton Dunes Washed Away
- Fox Weather: Drone Video of Buxton Beach Houses
- Wikipedia: Buxton, North Carolina
- Google Search: Buxton North Carolina noreaster
- Google Scholar: Buxton North Carolina noreaster
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Carolina
- Google News: Buxton North Carolina noreaster
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.
