Wayward kite at popular Canadian Hole spot causes Hatteras power outage

Brian Reese
·2 min read

HATTERAS, N.C. (WAVY) — A loose kite from a kiteboarder struck a transmission line at a popular kiteboarding spot on Thursday afternoon, causing a power outage on Hatteras Island.

Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative shared at 3:39 p.m. that crews were working to remove the kite at Canadian Hole, and shared just after 4 that power had been restored.

Power lines run right nearby the popular kiteboarding and windsurfing location on the Pamlico Sound between Buxton and Avon. The spot got its name due to popularity with Canadian windsurfers, who started making the trek down to Hatteras in the 1980s and 1990s, per OuterBanks.com. It’s known for its steady winds, particularly in the spring and fall.

Data shows average winds of about 10 mph for Thursday, with the occasional gust to 15 to 20 mph.

Several people on social media complained about the temporary outage, saying it affected their business and potentially led to damage for one project.

WAVY reached out to the cooperative, who confirmed the kiteboarder will be fine for the incident. The fee amount will be determined after a full report from the National Park Service.

CHEC Director of Public Relations & Marketing Laura Ertle says they’ve had several similar issues in the past with kites being entangled in the lines, which can result in loss of power, as well as potential injury and loss of life.

“We have extensive safety campaigns, including our latest ‘Look Up and Live’ messaging, encouraging kiteboarders and kite flyers to look up and be aware of cooperative infrastructure,” Ertle said. “We also visit our local watersport retailers yearly to drop off safety material, and work with the National Park Service to hang signs in their parking lots near popular kiting places.”

Ertle shared these safety tips:

  • Before gearing up and letting your kite soar, remember to “Look up and live” – check the immediate area around and above you to make sure there are no electric power lines in the immediate vicinity.

  • Never kite alone.

  • Remember, the wind on Hatteras Island can become strong very quickly, taking the kite and flyer in directions not intended.

  • If you find yourself being pulled by your kite to closely to a power line, you must react immediately and release yourself completely from your equipment.

  • Always exercise safe and courteous behavior when using kites.

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