Coastal Change Hazards: Hurricanes and Extreme Storms

Pre- and Post-Storm Lidar Topography: Comparisons of beach elevations measured before and after the storm quantify magnitudes of coastal change resulting from Hurricane Sandy.

Hurricane Sandy Pre and Post Storm Photos: Photography from North Carolina to Massachusetts. View photos.

Hurricane Isaac: Before and after photo pairs show examples of coastal change resulting from Hurricane Isaac.

Hurricane-Induced Coastal Erosion Hazards: Interactive maps show the probabilities of coastal change during category 1-5 hurricane landfall.

Coastal Change: Lidar topographic surveys reveal coastal change resulting from Hurricane Irene.

Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill: Areas potentially vulnerable to oil deposition were identified by comparing island topography to modeled water levels.
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One of the goals of the USGS Coastal and Marine Geology Program is a national assessment of coastal change hazards. Hurricanes provide a powerful force that generates dangerous waves and currents capable of moving large amounts of sand, destroying buildings and infrastructure, and reshaping our nation's coastline.  Our research focuses on understanding the magnitude and variability of the impacts of hurricanes and extreme storms on the sandy beaches of the United States. The overall objective is to improve the capability to predict coastal change that results from severe storms. Such a capability will support management of coastal infrastructure, resources, and safety.

Past Decade of Extreme Storms Leaves Coasts Vulnerable
Sound Waves article

Video: In Harm's Way: Measuring Storm Impacts to Forecast Future Vulnerability
USGS Podcast

2013 National Hurricane Conference