Outer Banks escapes major damage from latest storm

North Carolina's Outer Banks escaped major flooding and damage through Saturday, but parts of N.C. Highway 12 and beach erosion continue to be a concern.

Posted 11:48 p.m. Oct 3, 2015 — Updated 3:08 a.m. Oct 4, 2015

North Carolina’s Outer Banks escaped major flooding and damage through Saturday, but parts of N.C. Highway 12 and beach erosion continue to be a concern.

In Buxton, 10 to 15 feet swells were seen along the shoreline.

Carol Dillon’s family has owned the Outer Banks Motel in Buxton since the 1950s. Dillon said she fears the buildings may not hold up much longer after ocean water has continuously eaten away at the giant sandbags that buffered properties.

“If you walk out there, the water is underneath all five of my buildings,” Dillon said. “I worry about the pilings being destroyed. I had the steps wash away two days ago.”

Highway 12 has water settling in some areas, which has slowed traffic in the area. Most of the highway remains open, but a section north of Ocrakoke remains closed due to heavy flooding.

Crews from the Department of Transportation will continue to monitor and work on Highway 12, but the fix for the Buxton shoreline is not expected to occur for several months. Dare County officials said Highway 12 may remain closed due to high winds pushing more water onto the road.

Hyde County officials lifted a mandatory evacuation for Ocracoke Saturday evening, but only residents and essential personnel can return. Tourists are still not allowed access

Officials said a beach nourishment program is planned for spring of 2016.

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