20 Years Post-Hurricane Katrina: Discover How a Barrier Island in Alabama is Vanishing

Hurricane Katrina was a devastating event for many along the Gulf Coast. With over 1,400 lives lost, the impact is still felt in some communities today, nearly 20 years later.

According to the National Hurricane Center, Katrina is the costliest hurricane in U.S. history, causing around $201 billion in damage when adjusted for inflation. Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama saw extensive flooding, transforming landscapes and lives.

In Dauphin Island, Alabama, the aftermath was particularly grim. The storm left a massive gap on the island’s west end, destroying over 300 homes. Not only were residences lost, but the land itself was eroded, never to return. Today, Dauphin Island is grappling with ongoing erosion and rising sea levels.

Mayor Jeff Collier speaks about the unique challenges the island faces. Many homeowners still pay taxes on land that is now underwater. He highlights places where lots have vanished beneath the waves, making it hard to maintain a sense of community. Some homes remain livable, attracting vacationers, but the threat of future storms looms large.

Despite rebuilding efforts, such as restoring beach areas using funds from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill settlement, there’s an ongoing need for maintenance. Jillian Fairbanks, a frequent visitor, has noticed how quickly the beach is disappearing. She’s worried about the island’s future.

“It’s such a peaceful place,” she says. “I hope it stays that way.”

However, preserving Dauphin Island is expensive. Mayor Collier estimates that $60 million is needed for another restoration project. He is actively looking for funding, including an Environmental Protection Agency grant to improve stormwater systems. These projects are crucial, especially as low-grade storms can still cause significant flooding.

In a broader context, federal programs like FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) have aimed to assist areas facing such challenges. Derrick Hiebert, a former assistant administrator at FEMA, stresses the importance of these programs in reducing risks and aiding communities. He notes that during his tenure, FEMA selected over 1,900 projects worth nearly $5 billion to enhance resilience.

Unfortunately, the BRIC program faced cuts under the previous administration, raising concern among local leaders. Collier finds himself in limbo as he awaits federal guidance regarding future funding for his town.

“We’re just waiting to see what comes next,” he says. For now, he’s ready to fund essential safety plans personally if necessary.

The clock is ticking for Dauphin Island. Without major interventions, the community risks losing even more to future storms. The urgency is palpable as people like Mayor Collier focus on protecting their homes and heritage amidst constant threats from nature.



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Federal Emergency Management Agency, Alabama, Gulf Coast of the United States, Erosion, Dauphin Island