Less than a year later, Crystal Coast bracing for another storm in Hurricane Dorian

By Kasey Cunningham, WRAL reporter

Atlantic Beach, N.C. — The beaches along the Crystal Coast are expected to see a heavy impact from Hurricane Dorian. It was less than a year ago, Hurricane Florence pounded the coast.

Couple that with heavy rain and a possible storm surge of 4-6 feet, and it is no wonder residents and business owners are on edge again.

“We have a mandatory evacuation, I’m encouraging folks to hear the governor (Roy Cooper) and mayor’s warning to get out of town,” said Atlantic Beach Mayor Pro Tem Rich Porter.

People gathered at The Tackle Box Tavern in Atlantic Beach Wednesday night as Dorian approached.

“What we have here is kind of a sanctuary and they can come and they can share stories,” said one patron.

There were stories from hurricane first timers.

“I grew up in New Jersey,” another patron said. “I’m sure but hurricanes don’t get up there very often. But will be my very first one.”

And over a cold beverage, they share stories of survival.

“Lost my house to Florence so I’ve been homeless for a year,” Glad Atkins said. “And now? Here we go again.”

Not even a year ago, Hurricane Florence ripped through Atlantic Beach.

“I don’t think people understand how bad Florence was here,” Atkins said.

And despite drinks flowing, and smiles, there’s a nervous anticipation for Hurricane Dorian.

“We’re hoping that it will gain enough speed and blow right past us,” Porter said.

Meanwhile, hurricane first timers and veterans have all agreed to ride it out together.

“We chose to live in paradise. With paradise comes challenges,” Atkins said.