Fifteen Hurricanes That Changed the Carolinas: Powerful Storms, Climate Change, and What We Do Next

by Jay Barnes

This informative and engaging book tells the true stories of the hurricanes that had the greatest impact on North Carolina and South Carolina, from the eighteenth century to the present day. Hurricane historian Jay Barnes offers an illuminating and compelling account of the Carolinas' most recent storm disasters, Matthew and Florence, as well as thirteen other memorable hurricanes in the Tar Heel and Palmetto States, including Hazel, Hugo, Fran, and Floyd. In Barnes's hands, the examination of these powerful tropical cyclones leads to a broader view of the history of the Carolinas, revealing not only their terrifying and deadly consequences but also the perseverance of the region's people in the face of such extraordinary disasters.

In recounting the rich hurricane history of the Carolinas, from the mountains to the coast, Barnes urges readers to consider the storms to come and profiles how a warming planet and rising seas will affect future Carolina hurricanes.

Genres: Nonfiction, Climate Change

384 pages, Paperback

Published June 21, 2022

Reviews

[Lois · Rating 3 out of 5]

Purchased at independent bookstore in Manteo, N.C. while on vacation. A pretty tough sled in terms of repetitiveness and dry detail, but as a weather-watcher and one who loves the seacoast, important to read. Visited by memories of a departed brother who lost his home in one of the ones profiled here, and the lessons of "hide from the wind, flee from the water" are well taken. Everyone STOP TRYING TO DRIVE in hurricanes, tropical storms, and torrential rain!

[Agatha Donkar Lund · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oof, this one was a lot. It's dry, but it's an important read - and a heartbreakingly already out of date one. Reading about the 1916 Asheville flood sits a little different in the fall of 2025.

Worth a read if you live in or love the Carolinas and also believe in science.

[Steve Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent, well-researched work, but it’s a little dry. It’s a worthwhile read if you’re interested in the topic.

[Stephanie Moyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Felt like it took forever to finish, but lots of great information if you have an interest in the Carolinas!

[Carl Bock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great source of information especially regarding inland flooding disasters and incredible rescue operations for flood victims. Also good summary of what should be expected in the future.

[Jacob Kitchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really learned a lot with this book. I would recommend this for anyone living in North or South Carolina.