Which Hurricanes Have Affected the East Coast of the United States?

The East Coast of the United States has a long history of being impacted by powerful hurricanes, causing devastation and destruction along the coastline. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most significant hurricanes that have affected the East Coast, including their impact, damage, and notable events.

1. The Great Galveston Hurricane of 1900

While not a direct impact on the East Coast, the Great Galveston Hurricane of 1900 is considered one of the deadliest natural disasters in US history, with estimated fatalities ranging from 6,000 to 12,000. Although the storm made landfall in Texas, its impact was felt along the East Coast, causing widespread damage and loss of life.

2. The Long Island Express of 1938

The Long Island Express, also known as the New England Hurricane of 1938, made landfall on September 21, 1938, between Long Island and New England. This Category 3 hurricane caused catastrophic damage, killing over 600 people and leaving thousands homeless. The storm surge destroyed over 35,000 homes and caused an estimated \(300 million in damages (equivalent to over \)5 billion today).

3. Hurricane Diane (1955)

Hurricane Diane made landfall on September 14, 1955, in Virginia, bringing heavy rainfall and flooding to the East Coast. The storm caused 184 deaths and over \(1 billion in damages (equivalent to over \)9 billion today). The flooding in areas such as Washington D.C. and Norfolk, Virginia, was particularly severe, with some areas receiving over 10 inches of rain.

4. Hurricane Gloria (1985)

Hurricane Gloria made landfall on September 27, 1985, in Long Island, New York, as a Category 2 hurricane. The storm caused 12 deaths and over \(1.5 billion in damages (equivalent to over \)3.5 billion today). The storm surge caused significant flooding and damage along the coastline, particularly in New York and New Jersey.

5. Hurricane Andrew (1992)

Although Hurricane Andrew made landfall in Florida, its impact was felt along the East Coast. The storm brought category 4 hurricane-force winds and storm surges to parts of Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The storm caused 26 deaths and over $1 billion in damages in these areas.

6. Hurricane Isabel (2003)

Hurricane Isabel made landfall on September 18, 2003, in North Carolina, bringing heavy rainfall and flooding to the East Coast. The storm caused 47 deaths and over \(3 billion in damages (equivalent to over \)4.5 billion today). The storm surge caused significant flooding and damage along the coastline, particularly in North Carolina and Virginia.

7. Hurricane Irene (2011)

Hurricane Irene made landfall on August 28, 2011, in North Carolina, bringing category 1 hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall to the East Coast. The storm caused 48 deaths and over \(15 billion in damages (equivalent to over \)18.5 billion today). The flooding was particularly severe in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, with some areas receiving over 10 inches of rain.

8. Hurricane Sandy (2012)

Hurricane Sandy made landfall on October 29, 2012, in New Jersey, bringing devastating storm surges and flooding to the East Coast. The storm caused 147 deaths and over \(70 billion in damages (equivalent to over \)80.5 billion today). The flooding was particularly severe in New York City, with parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn underwater.

In conclusion, the East Coast of the United States has been affected by numerous powerful hurricanes throughout history, causing significant damage and loss of life. Understanding the impact of these storms is crucial in preparing for future hurricanes and mitigating their effects.