Storm Hazard Zones Along the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Cultural and Physical Perspectives

Abstract

Knowledge of storm and erosion hazard zones along barrier islands is crucial for public safety and informed land use. In this study hazardous areas along the Outer Banks which have been identified by earth scientists in the literature of coastal zone management are compared with native folk perceptions. Long-term residents who have observed several decades of environmental change can complement scientific delimitation of hazard zones.