State officials have lifted a precautionary swimming advisory for two areas along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in Rodanthe and Buxton.

The advisory, initially issued on August 7, was due to health risks from septic drain fields exposed by erosion caused by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Ernesto.

Untreated wastewater in these areas posed potential health risks, including diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and skin infections. However, recent tests show that bacteria levels in the ocean waters at GA Kohler Court in Rodanthe and Tower Circle in Buxton now meet both state and federal water quality standards.

Although officials have lifted the swimming advisory, they have kept the beach near Rodanthe closed. They still consider the area hazardous due to the home collapse on August 16. Additionally, advisories for soundside locations in Colington and between Frisco and Hatteras Village remain in effect.

For further details on the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view a map of testing sites, visit the program’s official website and follow their Twitter updates.