Nags Head Flooding Prompts Temporary Ocean-Swimming Advisory
Heavy rain flooded parts of Nags Head on July 23-24, prompting floodwater pumping near Conch Street and a temporary advisory for nearby swimmers.
Heavy rain caused localized flooding in parts of Nags Head on July 23 and July 24, prompting the town to pump floodwater into the ocean near Conch Street. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality then issued a temporary precautionary advisory telling swimmers and surfers to avoid the nearby discharge area.
NC DEQ said recent rains flooded streets, yards and housing in parts of Nags Head and nearby communities. The town’s pumping response was intended to minimize flood damage and help keep roads accessible for emergency vehicles.
Where the floodwater advisory applies
NC DEQ warned that floodwater entering the ocean can contain pollutants from wildlife and pets, oil and gasoline from parking areas, and septic systems or sewers. The agency said the notice was precautionary and did not mean disease-causing organisms had been confirmed in the water.
Warning signs were placed near the public beach accesses at Curlew Street and Small Street. NC DEQ said the signs would be removed 24 hours after pumping stopped and that officials would notify the public after removal.
A separate bacteria advisory
Nags Head also had a separate water-quality advisory issued July 23 at the southernmost public beach access off South Old Oregon Inlet Road. That advisory followed test results showing a running monthly average of 38 enterococci per 100 milliliters, above the state and federal standard of 35.
The bacteria advisory is separate from the floodwater-pumping warning. It applies to waters within 200 feet of the posted sign and does not affect the entire Nags Head area. NC DEQ specifically said it was not a beach closing.
What residents and visitors should do
Swimmers and surfers should avoid posted areas near the Conch Street discharge and follow signs at Curlew Street, Small Street and the southernmost access off South Old Oregon Inlet Road. Drivers should also use caution around flooded roads identified in local advisories.
Because the notices can change after pumping ends or additional water samples are collected, beachgoers should check current updates from the Town of Nags Head and NC DEQ before entering affected water.
Sources
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