News Release

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Reports Status Updates After Recent Coastal Storm

Photo of the damaged Avon Fishing Pier on the morning of Sept. 26.

NPS

News Release Date: September 28, 2026
Contact: Cape Hatteras Public Affairs

MANTEO, N.C. — Cape Hatteras National Seashore experienced significant impacts from the recent coastal storm. Dare County has declared a State of Emergency for Hatteras Island. As a result, non-resident travel to Hatteras Island is currently prohibited.

Visitors and residents should be aware of the following damages and impacts.

Avon Fishing Pier Damage
The Avon Fishing Pier sustained structural damage during the storm, including an estimated 20-foot gap in the structure. The Seashore is actively engaged in conversations with the pier’s lessee to evaluate the extent of the damage and determine next steps.

Rodanthe Beach Closure
The beach remains closed from the northern boundary of Rodanthe to the pier in Rodanthe. Entering the ocean should be avoided due to the potential for poor water quality associated with damaged septic systems.

Hatteras Island Beach Impacts
Some public beach access boardwalks have been buried or damaged from wave action. A significant amount of private beach stairs and boardwalk decking, septic system parts, and wooden and metal debris from houses are littering the beach. Seashore staff and volunteers are working to clean up these items during routine patrols.

Off-Road Vehicle Access
Most off-road vehicle ramps have reopened. Check real-time updates at: go.nps.gov/beachaccess. Routes may be hazardous due to the presence of debris.

Campground Status
Cape Point and Frisco campgrounds remain closed at this time due to Dare County’s State of Emergency declaration. The campground is only open to campers that have not been able to leave Hatteras Island due to limited transportation options.

Updated Travel Information
The Seashore recommends visitors with upcoming travel plans to Hatteras Island monitor drivenc.gov and ncferry.org for the status of N.C. Highway 12 and ferry travel and the Dare County website for updates to its State of Emergency declaration.

Current seashore information and updates are available at www.nps.gov/caha.

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