Focal Point Documentary: Hurricane Hazel
On October 15, 1954, Hurricane Hazel delivered a devastating blow to North Carolina. It was the only category 4 hurricane to hit the state in the 20th century, and by most measures, was the worst.
Posted — UpdatedVeteran WRAL News anchor Charlie Gaddy revisits that infamous day with those who survived the storm and those who keep a watchful eye on the skies today.
Watch the Documentary
Online Extras
Learn more about the destructive storm through a radio broadcast, home movies and photos:
Listen as WPTF radio announcer Carl Goerch delivers one of the first reports of Hazel's aftermath on Oct. 16, 1954. He flew along the coast in a DC-3 to view the damage along Long Beach and Wrightsville Beach.
The Polvino family shares their home movies of Hazel's aftermath near Topsail Island. (No audio)
What would happen if a Category 4 hurricane, like Hazel, tracked further east across the Pamlico Sound, similar to the path taken by Hurricane Isabel in 2003? Coastal geologist Stan Riggs offers perspective.
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.