Buxton, NC — Hurricane Imelda unleashed its fury on North Carolina’s Outer Banks Tuesday, causing five unoccupied homes to collapse into the ocean in under an hour.
A Rapid Chain of Destruction
The homes, situated along Buxton’s vulnerable shoreline, gave way one after another as powerful waves and storm surge battered the coast. Neighboring structures were damaged as debris scattered across miles of beach. Local witnesses described the scene as surreal. “It was like dominoes falling,” one resident said. “The water just kept pounding, and the houses didn’t stand a chance.”
A Recurring Threat
The Outer Banks have faced similar devastation in recent years. Officials report that 17 homes in the same area have collapsed over the past five years, highlighting the growing risks coastal communities face from rising sea levels and stronger storms.
Official Response
Authorities from Cape Hatteras National Seashore issued warnings, urging residents and visitors to stay away from the debris-strewn beaches. Cleanup efforts are underway, but officials caution that unstable structures along the waterline remain a serious hazard.
“This is a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of long-term planning for coastal resilience,” an official stated.
Looking Ahead
With Hurricane Imelda still active offshore, residents remain on high alert. Emergency crews continue to monitor the area, as further structural damage is possible if storm conditions worsen.
For now, Buxton faces the challenge of recovery once again, with its shoreline littered with debris and the sobering reality of life on the edge of the sea.