The Dare County Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) in conjunction with Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore)are issuing an updated public health advisory for the Seashore’s Buxton Beach Access, also known as the Buxton Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS). A precautionary closure now extends from the southern boundary of the Village of Buxton southward to an area approximately four-tenths-of-a-mile north of off-road vehicle ramp 43, due to petroleum odors and sheens coming from the Buxton Formerly Used Defense Site.

The beach in the area described above has been CLOSED by the National Park Service and this public advisory is issued to reinforce the importance of not entering the closed area to avoid any potential health risks associated with petroleum exposure. Until the petroleum contaminated soils and release into the environment are mitigated, and the area is declared safe, environmental and public health officials recommend:

Not entering the closed area for any reason to include swimming, wading or fishing in this area in Buxton, the southern end of the location of beachfront homes in the village of Buxton located at the end of Old Lighthouse Road, to approximately 0.25 miles south of the old lighthouse jetties and includes the beachfront in front of the southern groin and the Old Lighthouse Beach parking areas until further notice. Reports of varying mild to moderate symptoms including headache, nausea and skin irritation have been shared by individuals after participation in recreational water activities in the impacted area. If skin comes in contact with contaminated sediment or water, thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water.

In addition to the potential health risks related to petroleum contamination, there are a number of remnants of what is believed to be Navy and Coast Guard infrastructure, including concrete bunkers and building foundations that are unsafe and pose hazards to swimmers, surfers and beach goers.

More information on the Seashore’s Buxton Beach Access, including any modifications to the current closure, visit: https://www.nps.gov/caha/learn/news/buxton-beach-access.htm

More information on public health advisories can be found at: www.darenc.gov/PublicHealthAdvisory