Wild video shows moment collapsed house is swept out to sea as Hurricane Ernesto approaches North Carolina

In a spectacular display of nature's power, a beach house in the northernmost town of Rodanthe, located on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, was swept out to sea Friday as Hurricane Ernesto lashed the Carolina coast. north

The house, which had been perched precariously on pilings, collapsed into the rising ocean, a stark reminder of the vulnerability of properties along the Outer Banks.

Red Beach Nation Freedom-Loving Beachwear – Save 10% with code RVM10

The National Park Service (NPS) confirmed the incident, noting that the house was the seventh to collapse on Seashore beaches in the past four years.

This alarming trend highlights the growing dangers posed by beach erosion, which has been exacerbated by rising sea levels and more frequent severe weather events.

As Hurricane Ernesto approached, it brought with it aggressive tides and powerful winds that overwhelmed the beach house, sweeping it into the waves.

A now-viral video captures the moment the two-story house was swept away by the raging waters. In the background, a voice is heard exclaiming: “Oh my God. Oh my God!”

The house, a classic elevated beach-style structure, had been designed to withstand the harsh coastal environment, with its piles intended to protect it from high tides.

However, the force of Ernesto's surf proved too much, and the house collapsed as the tide swept over his property.

Debris from the houseboat was seen floating on its side in the water, much of which was washed back to shore.

Wooden planks and other debris from the destroyed house were scattered over hundreds of feet of sand after the collapse.

Experts believe that while some debris was deposited back on the beach, most was likely transported more than a dozen miles out to sea.

The NPS has been monitoring the situation closely, especially as Hurricane Ernesto is expected to strengthen over the weekend.

Officials are concerned that this house will not be the last casualty of the storm, especially given the rapid erosion that has affected the area in recent years.

“Accelerated shoreline loss is attributed to winds, waves and tides, along with rising seas and storms.” stated the NPS, noting the harsh realities facing coastal communities like Rodanthe.

Known for its scenic beauty and rich history, the Outer Banks have become increasingly susceptible to the destructive forces of nature.

This latest incident underscores the ongoing struggle between human habitation and the relentless power of the ocean.

In response to the sinking, access to the beach in the area has been cut off.

Officials are not only concerned about the dangerous debris but also the strong currents that Ernesto is expected to bring.

As the storm continues to rage, there is a real possibility that more homes along the fragile coast will suffer the same fate.

The loss of the Rodanthe beach house is a tragic reminder of the vulnerability of coastal communities to increasingly severe weather patterns.

As storms like Ernesto become more frequent and intense, the challenge of protecting these areas from sea invasion becomes increasingly daunting.

For the residents of the Outer Banks, the collapse of this house is not just a loss of property, but a poignant symbol of the ongoing battle against the inexorable advance of nature.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RVM News. Contact us for guidelines for submitting your own comment.