It’s hurricane season on the Outer Banks. Typically the last two weeks of August and the first two weeks of September are when we get the most activity here. This year is holding true to form.
This week is proving to be extraordinary between the ripple down of the earthquake in VA and the arrival of the hurricane on its way. At least we’ve had some extremely nice weather this summer.
As far as the hurricanes go, a few things I’ve learned by living here for 20 years now. Typically we see a major storm every 7 to 10 years. It’s been since Isabelle in 2003 that we had the last one. That puts us right on schedule for another major storm.
The homes here on the Outer Banks are built to withstand 120 mph winds. They come equipped with special hurricane straps on the pilings. High winds are usually not the culprit of the biggest damage…it’s the storm surge that takes out most of the homes.
Depending on whether the major winds come up through the sound or stay offshore will determine if the flooding and storm surge happens on the soundside of the island or the Oceanside. That is yet to be determined but if I was a betting person, I would say Oceanside for this one. It’s actually shaping up to look a lot like Isabelle did 8 years ago!
So while I’m not overly concerned with the winds, flooding at my house would be highly unusual, it’s the loss of power for several days that has me most concerned. That’s ME – personally. For the homeowners on the oceanfront or soundfront, I do also have great concern for them and pray everything stays intact!
I hope everyone is safe through the (which will likely come tomorrow afternoon) and through the storm itself if you decide to stay. I’ll post pictures once the whole event is overwith!
God Bless!
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