Five Outer Banks Homes Collapse Into Atlantic Amid Hurricanes Humberto, Imelda

Five unoccupied beachfront homes in Buxton, North Carolina, collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean due to massive waves generated by Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda, according to the National Park Service and local reports. The collapses occurred within a short timespan on September 30, with no injuries reported, but significant debris littered the shore, prompting warnings for visitors to avoid the area. This event continues a trend of erosion and destruction along North Carolina's Outer Banks, where at least seventeen privately owned homes have fallen into the sea since 2020, exacerbated by rising sea levels and storm activity. Dramatic drone footage and eyewitness accounts describe the intensity of the waves and the sound of houses collapsing, highlighting the ongoing threat to coastal communities. The storms, while not making landfall, have produced dangerous surf conditions and coastal flooding advisories affecting the region. Authorities anticipate further collapses and debris challenges as ocean conditions remain severe throughout the week.