State officials have issued a precautionary advisory warning the public against swimming in ocean waters along Cape Hatteras National Seashore, specifically in and between the Villages of Rodanthe, Buxton, and Hatteras on Highway 12. The advisory follows Hurricane Erin, which caused significant erosion and storm surge in the area.
Officials cite public health risks due to exposed septic drain fields and the pumping of ocean over wash into the surf. Wastewater discharges may have led to contamination in both the ocean and nearby tidal pools. According to state authorities, swimming in these areas could result in adverse health effects such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and skin infections.
“The risk of exposure from wastewater system failures is temporary and should be resolved once the septic tank is emptied and the system is no longer being utilized. The state is working with the National Park Service and Dare County officials to determine when the risk of exposure is no longer a concern.”
Ocean water pumped from Highway 12 may contain pollutants including waste from wildlife and pets, oil and gasoline from parking lots, as well as waste from septic systems.
State officials are monitoring water quality conditions. They will lift the advisory once bacteriological test results meet state and federal standards, and at least 24 hours after pumping has stopped when there is no longer a risk of exposure.
For further details about water quality testing or to view maps of testing sites, residents can visit the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program website or follow updates on their X feed.
