Figure 4.27. A perspective image composed of the 1996 land cover classification draped over a DEM for the Onslow Bay region

The ability to define natural barriers to storm surge inundation can be helpful in predicting the potential extent of hurricane impacts.  One option for locating these barriers is to use a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) coupled with the satellite-derived land cover data.  With accurate DEM data, it is possible to create a 3-dimensional perspective view of a region.  To accomplish this, a 2-dimensional image is draped on a 3-dimensional DEM surface. The perspective image above is composed of the 1996 land cover classification draped over a DEM for the Onslow Bay region.  The image is vertically exaggerated to emphasize elevation differences.