Unoccupied house collapses on Cape Hatteras National Seashore beach in Rodanthe

News Release Date:
August 16, 2024

Contact:Mike Barber, 252-475-9032

MANTEO, N.C. - Following the collapse of an unoccupied beach house this evening, Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) and the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge strongly urges all visitors to avoid the beaches and stay out of the water around all areas of the beaches and surf in Rodanthe. Additionally, all public entry from the northern boundary of Rodanthe up to the northern end of the Jug Handle Bridge is closed. Many other homes appear to have sustained damages in the Rodanthe area. Dangerous debris may be present on the beach and in the water for more than a dozen miles.

Prevailing currents appear to be rapidly transporting home debris to the north; however, if the wave swell and winds shift over the coming days, debris may also impact visitor safety in the villages of Waves and Salvo.

The Seashore is in communications with the property owner. A debris removal contractor has not been obtained by the owner at this time. Debris removal activities may be conducted by National Park Service staff if other efforts to remove debris do not occur. The Seashore does not expect significant debris removal efforts to occur until after the elevated sea conditions subside early next week.

This evening's collapse of the house at 23214 Corbina Drive is the seventh house collapse on Seashore beaches over the past four years. No personal injuries were reported in connection with any of the collapses. Learn more about the threatened oceanfront structures that border the Seashore at: go.nps.gov/cahatos.

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