Houses Collapse into Atlantic in North Carolina
On Tuesday, five vacant homes in Buxton, North Carolina, collapsed and were swept into the Atlantic Ocean.
The incidents occurred within about 45 minutes, starting around 2 PM EST, as reported by officials from Cape Hatteras National Coast. Thankfully, there have been no injuries reported.
“It was wild; it sounded like an explosion,” local resident Hunter Hicks shared, speaking with a Fox weather correspondent. “Windows shattered, pylons broke, and houses were being swept away. It’s pretty severe now.”
The three damaged homes were located near Cottage Avenue, while the other two fell down nearby on Tower Circle Road.
“Every house is taking a hit. It’s heartbreaking,” said photographer Jenni Koontz. “As a local, I think the damage is unmeasurable. It’s tough for homeowners and our community.”
Koontz mentioned that the debris is so mixed up, it’s hard to identify the original homes.
“I’m unsure how this can be cleaned up quickly. There’s so much debris,” she commented. “We’re just beginning to assess the situation, and I anticipate the rest of the week will be just as intense.”
Hicks noted that some people had rented these homes just a month ago but were forced to evacuate before the storm hit.
“I’m really upset,” he added.
Although both hurricanes passed by the East Coast, strong waves are still expected to affect the coast throughout the week.
Coastal flood warnings are in effect until Friday evening, with water levels potentially rising 2-3 feet above normal due to ocean flooding.
The National Weather Service cautioned that this situation poses an increased threat of property damage, warning that floods could reach inland areas, threatening homes and vital infrastructure.
North Carolina Highway 12 has been closed along the northern edge of Ocracoke Island due to rising ocean conditions affecting travel safety.
With more heavy surf predicted, Koontz expressed concern that additional homes in vulnerable positions could also be lost.
“Yes, all those houses are hanging by a thread,” Koontz stated. Some might be more decorated and appear stronger, but, generally, they are all at risk.
“And the weather’s just begun to change here; I think things will get more intense as autumn arrives,” she added.
