Figure 1.20

Date: September 5, 1996, evening

Landfall Location: Near Cape Fear, North Carolina

Category: 3 (at landfall in N.C.), 3 (Highest)

Wind Speed: 115 miles per hour (North Carolina), 120 miles per hour (Highest)

Major Areas Affected: New Hanover, Brunswick, Onslow, Carteret, Pender Counties, and some eastern parts of North Carolina. Topsail Island received the worst damage.

Major Damage Types: Structural, agricultural, and environmental

Total Dollar Damage: $4 billion (North Carolina)

Deaths: 21 (North Carolina)

Injuries: Not available

Structural Damage: Many beach front homes completely destroyed

Special Details: Flash floods, severe storm surge, and severe rainfall. Many effects were felt as far inland as Raleigh, North Carolina. Oceanfront homes were destroyed by beach erosion and waves.

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