North Carolina has lifted most swimming advisories issued in response to Tropical Storm Debby. However, four locations on the Outer Banks continue to show high bacteria levels, making them unsafe for swimming.

The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program recently announced that water samples from most soundside swimming areas south of the Wright Memorial Bridge now meet safety standards set by both the state and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As a result, the precautionary advisory for most oceanfront beaches was lifted on August 14.

Despite these improvements, four specific sites in Dare County remain under advisory:

• Sandy Bay soundside access, between Frisco and Hatteras Village
• Colington Harbour swim beach, at the end of Colington Drive
• Ocean waters at G.A. Kohler Court, Rodanthe
• Ocean waters at Tower Circle, Buxton

These areas are being closely monitored, and updates will be provided when bacteria levels drop to safe levels.

The initial advisory was issued on August 7, as Tropical Storm Debby approached North Carolina. Heavy rainfall and flooding from the storm can cause bacteria levels to rise, increasing the risk of illness for swimmers. Floodwaters often carry pollutants, including septic waste, sewer leaks, pet and wildlife waste, petroleum products, and other hazardous chemicals.

Although North Carolina’s coastal waters are generally safe, regular monitoring is vital to ensure public safety. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program tests 221 coastal sites, with most locations sampled weekly from April through October.

For additional details on the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program and a map of testing locations, visit their official website or follow them on Twitter.