News Ecosystems

Hurricanes’ full havoc yet to be felt

By Sid Perkins

- More than 2 years ago

Sediment-rich floodwaters gushing from southern Pamlico Sound after Hurricane Floyd are swept northeast (arrow) by the Gulf Stream in this Sept. 23, 1999, image. ©1999 Orbital Imaging Corporation

Forget about a mere one-two punch. When Hurricanes Dennis, Floyd, and Irene pummeled North Carolina in the fall of 1999, they delivered a three-punch combination that for years to come may disturb coastal ecosystems there and disrupt fishing in the Atlantic Ocean.