Collapsing house amidst stormy sea
On Friday, the picturesque shores of Rodanthe witnessed a shocking scene as a house succumbed to the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean. This event came in the wake of the swells generated by Hurricane Ernesto, which, despite being located over 1,000 miles away, brought significant impacts to the North Carolina coast.
The National Weather Service in Morehead City responded promptly, issuing a Coastal Flood Advisory and a High Surf Advisory for many coastal areas. The combination of Ernesto’s powerful swells and the high tides associated with the recent supermoon created ideal conditions for significant coastal erosion and flooding.
Dare County Emergency Management confirmed that the home, which was unoccupied at the time, had been precariously situated and at risk of collapsing for some time. The destructive combination of strong surf and elevated sea levels proved to be the final blow, causing the weakened structure to give way.
As the situation unfolded, pieces of debris from the collapsed house began drifting northward. National Park Service staff at Cape Hatteras National Seashore were on-site, monitoring the deteriorating conditions. Meanwhile, flooding also adversely affected North Carolina Highway 12, the main route connecting to the Outer Banks, where reports indicated overwash during peak tide periods.
In response to the rising waters, the North Carolina Department of Transportation is actively monitoring the highway. Crews have placed large sandbags along the route to minimize water intrusion, ensuring that access to the islands remains open despite the challenging conditions.
Notably, this incident is not an isolated one. Since 2020, multiple homes along the North Carolina coastline have faced similar fates, with severe erosion driven by a combination of natural forces and rising ocean levels. Areas like Rodanthe and Buxton frequently close parts of their beaches during tumultuous weather events due to hazardous debris being uncovered.
Despite the immediate dangers subsiding for now, the threat of flooding and high surf remains prevalent in the area for the upcoming days. The NWS has warned that low-lying properties and infrastructure may still experience 1 to 2 feet of inundation during high tide. Beachgoers should remain vigilant, as the risk of dangerous rip currents continues along the eastern seaboard.
As the community assesses the damage and prepares for potential further impacts from coastal erosion, the events surrounding Hurricane Ernesto serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by coastal properties. Residents and officials alike are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety in the days ahead.