Don’t swim in waters along North Carolina’s coast, state still warns

Published

5 months ago

August 11, 2024

Don’t swim in waters along North Carolina’s coast, state still warns

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — North Carolina officials are still advising against swimming at the coast after Tropical Storm Debby hit the state this week, impacting water quality along beaches.

Before the storm hit, state recreational water quality officials advised against swimming for a large area of the North Carolina coast after the storm passed.

On Saturday, officials told CBS 17 that the no-swimming advice is still valid on beaches from the Wright Memorial Bridge in Kitty Hawk down south to the South Carolina state line

“The precautionary advisory will remain in place until samples collected are within a safe swimming standard,” said Erin Bryan-Millush, manager of the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program.

Heavy rains negatively impact coastal waters — through stormwater runoff that can contain elevated levels of harmful bacteria that drain into coastal surf, she said.

More than 10 inches of rainfall at the coast has caused street flooding along with overflowing waters into homes, businesses and yards.

“The sources of bacteria can vary and include failing septic systems, sewer line breaks and overflowing manholes,” Bryan-Millush said.

Flooding in Ocean Isle Beach this week from Tropical Storm Debby. Photo courtesy: Ocean Isle Beach

Some coastal towns are forced to pump flood water into the ocean or into streams that can easily reach beach areas.

The no-swimming advisory must remain in place 24 hours after such pumping has ceased, Bryan-Millush said.

On Saturday, Oak Island, Emerald Isle and North Topsail Beach were still pumping or are within 24 hours of having stopped, she said.

The areas in orange have the no-swimming advisory. The areas in green do not have a warning. Image from N.C. Recreational Water Quality

But simply waiting after the pumping ends is not enough, she said.

Water testing will then take place — likely on Monday and Tuesday.

Officials said, “depending on results we hope to begin lifting ocean-side waters (advisories) by Wednesday.”

Bryan-Millush said the no-swimming advisories will be lifted in part or as a whole when test results become available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.

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Santa Claus swaps reindeer for alpacas at farm in Waynesville

Published

5 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Press Room

Santa Claus swaps reindeer for alpacas at farm in Waynesville

WAYNESVILLE, N.C. — At Winchester Creek Farm, Santa Claus traded in his traditional reindeer for alpacas during the farm’s Santa Tour on Monday.

The event offered visitors a unique opportunity to pose for photos with Santa and interact closely with the farm’s animals.

The farm also featured a large mailbox for children to send their letters to Santa. Luanna Baldwin, a mother from Canton, expressed her delight with the experience.

“This was a great outing to take the girls for some Christmas magic,” Baldwin said. “They’ve been asking to see Santa, write a letter specifically, so that was super fun.”

At Winchester Creek Farm, Santa Claus traded in his traditional reindeer for alpacas during the farm’s Santa Tour, which concluded on Monday, Dec. 23.

WLOS via CNN Newsource

In addition to the alpacas, the tour allowed guests to feed and pet various other farm animals. Farm Manager Ashley Edwards highlighted the joy the event brings to visitors of all ages.

“We have people come in who are in their 60s, 70s, and above who have never touched a chicken before, and I’m able to provide that kind of happiness to their hearts to their soul, and I think it’s great,” Edwards said. “This is a memory people aren’t going to forget.”

Winchester Creek Farm has been hosting the Santa Tours for the past six years. Although this year’s event has ended, the farm offers tours throughout the year.

Winchester Creek Farm operates as a year-round working farm, raising animals primarily for the fiber produced by their coats.

SEE ALSO | Schools closed for winter break: Family fun things to do

Featured video is ABC11 24/7 Livestream

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North Carolina

Multiple injuries reported in northeast Charlotte 8-car crash

Published

14 hours ago

December 25, 2024

Press Room

Multiple injuries reported in northeast Charlotte 8-car crash

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – An eight-car crash injured several people and shut down a major interstate on Christmas Eve, the Charlotte Fire Department confirmed.

The crash happened at Interstate 85 North at West W.T. Harris Boulevard. I-85 was shut down by 7:40 p.m. and isn’t expected to reopen before 10:40 p.m.

Of those injured, two were taken to area hospitals, according to Medic.

Crews at the scene said to expect significant delays in the area.

For the latest traffic maps, visit drivenc.gov.

WBTV is working to find out more information. Download the free WBTV News app for the latest updates sent straight to your device.

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North Carolina

How AM radio helped storm recovery efforts in North Carolina

Published

22 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Press Room

How AM radio helped storm recovery efforts in North Carolina – CBS News

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After Hurricane Helene brought devastating flooding to North Carolina, internet and cell phone service were spotty at best. But many were able to coordinate relief efforts and get crucial information out over AM radio. Skyler Henry has the story.