Five homes in North Carolina’s Outer Banks have collapsed due to powerful waves from hurricanes Humberto and Imelda, sweeping them into the Atlantic Ocean. The collapses occurred within a short time frame in Buxton, with no reported injuries. Local residents describe the scene as “insane” with massive debris piles making cleanup difficult.
The National Weather Service warns of an elevated threat of property damage due to coastal flooding, which may extend inland from the waterfront and threaten homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Highway 12 was shut down on Ocracoke Island due to increasing ocean overwash.
Photographer Jenni Koontz fears more vulnerable homes will be lost this week as several days of heavy surf are forecasted. She notes that many homes are bracing for the worst, with some still standing but perched precariously over the surf. The area is expected to face further intense weather, making it a challenging cleanup process.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/10/01/us-news/five-coastal-homes-collapse-as-hurricanes-ravage-north-carolinas-outer-banks