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AMPLIFIED STORM SURGE

METEOROLOGIST JEFF HABY

The storm surge experienced at the coast can vary dramatically depending on the position of the storm and the orientation/shape of the coastline. This writing examines the impact of storm surge on bays and inlets as a hurricane approaches. The diagram below shows a bay. A hurricane is approaching the coastline from the southeast toward the northwest. As it approaches the coast, the right side of the hurricane has winds moving from the ocean toward the land. Thus, this region will have a stronger storm surge. Adding to this is the funneling effect of the water as it moves from the ocean and into the bay. This will dramatically increase the storm surge within the bay. Extreme flooding can occur in these situations.