Cape Hatteras Beach Closure Expands Due to Erosion and Petroleum Odors
Cape Hatteras, North Carolina – A recent expansion of beach closures has taken place at Cape Hatteras National Seashore following alarming discoveries related to **_erosion_** and **_petroleum odors_** in the area. The closure zone now stretches approximately **0.25 miles**, from beachfront homes at the end of Old Lighthouse Road in Buxton to the old lighthouse jetties.
Petroleum Contamination Concern
Officials from the **_National Park Service (NPS)_** announced that the closure was implemented as a **_precautionary measure_** after erosion exposed contaminated soils and groundwater at a site known as the Buxton Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS). This contamination is attributed to historic military activities that once took place in the area.
Hazardous Materials Identified
Alongside the petroleum odors, the erosion has uncovered hazardous remnants of Navy and Coast Guard infrastructure, including large quantities of **_concrete_**, **_rebar_**, **_PVC and metal pipes_**, and other assorted **_metal fragments_** and cables that were previously buried. These hazardous materials pose a risk to public safety, prompting officials to discourage access to the area.
Public Advisory and Next Steps
The NPS urges visitors to heed signage posted around the **_beach closure_** and to maintain a safe distance from the affected area. As conditions evolve based on continued field observations, the closure boundaries may change accordingly, so visitors are advised to remain informed about the situation.
This unexpected situation highlights the ongoing challenges related to historical military use of coastal areas and their environmental impacts, and officials are working diligently to assess and manage the risks associated with the site.
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.
