Storm Damage Hazard Along the East Coast of the United States

Abstract

Study of the frequency of damaging storms along the east coast of the United States during the past 40 years has revealed a significant increase in the past decade. Reasons for this increase are analyzed. It is concluded that man's generally unrestricted development of the outer coastal margin as well as a slight intensification of coastal cyclones have both contributed. Assuming no change in coastal development or meteorological conditions in the future, a storm damaging as much of the coast as the one in March 1962 would be expected once every 20 years. Based on recent storm damage experience, the New England coastal area and the region around Cape Hatteras appear to be particularly vulnerable to storm damage. The New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware coast and the coast from South Carolina to Florida seem to have a relatively low storm damage potential.