Overview and Impact
Hurricane Erin, a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of 169 kilometers per hour, struck the coasts of North Carolina and Virginia early Thursday morning. The massive storm caused dangerous flooding along the coast, with large waves inundating Highway 12, which connects the Outer Banks chain of islands. This resulted in some areas becoming impassable, as evidenced by images shared by local authorities.
Vulnerability of Outer Banks
Chip Konrad, a professor at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, explained to AFP that the Outer Banks are highly susceptible to rising sea levels due to gradual land subsidence and climate change. “Even moderate storm surges, like those experienced with Hurricane Erin, can have significant impacts,” he stated.
Warnings and Precautions
Despite the Atlantic Mid-Atlantic region bearing the brunt of Hurricane Erin’s impacts, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) advised beachgoers along the entire Eastern Seaboard to avoid swimming due to potentially life-threatening conditions.
Hurricane Season and Climate Change
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Although it began relatively calmly with only five major storms, including Erin, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) still predicts an above-average season.
- Climate Change Impact: Scientists assert that climate change is intensifying tropical cyclones. Warmer oceans generate stronger winds, while a warmer atmosphere amplifies precipitation. Rising sea levels further exacerbate storm surges.
- Hurricane Frequency: Although less conclusive, there is evidence suggesting that climate change may increase hurricane frequency.
