Which Hurricane Hit NC Twice?

North Carolina has been affected by many devastating hurricanes over the years, but one tropical cyclone stands out for its unique distinction: Hurricane Fran, which made landfall twice in the state.

Hurricane Fran was a powerful Category 3 hurricane that formed in the Atlantic Ocean in August 1996. At the time, it was the strongest hurricane to hit North Carolina since Hurricane Hazel in 1954. Fran’s double impact on the state left a lasting impression on the residents and caused significant damage.

First Landfall:

On September 5, 1996, Hurricane Fran made its first landfall in North Carolina as a Category 3 hurricane, bringing powerful winds and heavy rainfall to the Outer Banks. The storm surge flooded coastal areas, including the towns of Oriental and Davis, causing widespread damage and flooding. The National Weather Service reported that the storm surge reached as high as 10 feet in some areas.

Second Landfall:

After weakening to a Category 1 hurricane, Fran began to move inland, causing significant damage and flooding across central and eastern North Carolina. On September 6, the storm made its second landfall in the state, near Cape Fear River. This time, the storm’s winds were stronger, with gusts reaching up to 80 mph, causing widespread power outages and property damage.

Impact:

The double impact of Hurricane Fran had a profound effect on North Carolina. The storm caused 27 deaths and over $3 billion in damages, making it one of the costliest natural disasters in the state’s history. The storm also displaced thousands of people, with many forced to seek shelter in temporary housing.

Lessons Learned:

The experience of Hurricane Fran has led to significant changes in the state’s emergency response and disaster preparedness. The storm highlighted the importance of evacuation and storm shelters, as well as the need for improved storm surge protection and flood control measures.

Conclusion:

Hurricane Fran’s double impact on North Carolina is a rare and sobering reminder of the destructive power of hurricanes. The storm’s legacy continues to inform disaster preparedness and response efforts in the state, ensuring that residents are better equipped to face the challenges posed by severe weather events.

Sources:

• National Hurricane Center: Hurricane Fran (1996)
• National Weather Service: Hurricane Fran (1996)
• FEMA: Hurricane Fran (1996)

Image:-map of North Carolina showing the track of Hurricane Fran.