Overview
What makes the erosion that occurs in the aftermath of a hurricane different?
Moore Experts Lauren Haworth and Ernie Fields delve into this question exploring the factors that increase erosion and the importance of post-hurricane erosion in IECA’s Oct/Nov issue of Environmental Connection.
“Hurricanes are some of the most expensive and dangerous natural disasters we face. In late summer 2017, Hurricane Harvey slammed into the South Texas shoreline, causing $150 billion to $200 billion in damages and 82 deaths. It remained in the Houston vicinity for approximately four days after landfall, and some areas experienced as much as 1.52 meters (60 in.) of rainfall.
Along with the obvious damages to buildings and infrastructure, erosion causes extensive damage that can have far-reaching consequences. Many people are familiar with the coastal erosion that accompanies hurricanes. Storm-induced waves can move large quantities of sand both out to sea and further inland, causing widespread damage to the built and natural environment. However, hurricanes can also cause extensive inland erosion with similarly serious consequences.”
