Cape Hatteras National Seashore officials are recommending that visitors avoid the beach near Rodanthe through the weekend because of the potential for ocean over wash and beach erosion associated with distant Hurricane Fiona.
The recommendation to avoid a two-mile stretch of beach, between the north end of Rodanthe and South Shore Drive, is based on recent National Weather Service forecasts and the presence of several vulnerable houses that may be damaged by rough surf and high winds, according to officials with the seashore.
They said it’s possible that wires, pipes and septic systems associated with those homes may become partially or completely exposed and hazardous as the ocean washes over the beach.
In 2022 thus far, three homes in that area have been washed into the Atlantic – on in January and two in May.
Meanwhile, at Cape Lookout National Seashore, the strong ocean swells coming ashore are expected to produce dangerous rip currents through the weekend and some minor ocean overwash and beach erosion is possible -- especially for beaches facing the southeast. That includes all of Core Banks.
Officials caution campers to choose their spot well so they don't end up in a pool of water at high tide.
