With its August 2020 landfall, Isaias became the earliest fifth named storm to make landfall in the United States. The previous record for the earliest fifth storm to make a U.S. landfall was August 18, 1916.
The hurricane made landfall near Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina .
Heavy damage was inflicted to multiple homes in Oak Island and Ocean Isle Beach, including three that were destroyed in the latter community by a large fire. Damage in Holden Beach alone exceeded $40 million. On August 3, a waterspout came ashore and struck Bald Head Island and Southport, causing major EF2 damage.
Mission Coordinator, Nancy Gladden, summarizes, “The damage was extensive in southern Brunswick County, particularly on Oak
Island, Ocean Isle, and Holden Beach. Southport and Shallotte also have damage. Storm surge and wind were the main problems. The storm intensified just before landfall and came in on a lunar high tide which compounded impacts. Some areas are still without water and power. Members of our churches who were affected have been told by insurance companies their damage will be covered. So yay for that! Our churches are all fine as far as they can tell at this point.”
Churches are reminded to Check Facilities
Churches in the Presbytery who are not currently fully utilizing their facility are strongly reminded and encouraged to thoroughly inspect for storm damage so that additional water damage can be prevented and timely insurance claims filed. If your facility has significant damage, please notify your mission coordinator.
At least two of our member churches are helping folks with damage and repairs, Southport Presbyterian and Shallotte Presbyterian Churches. The Presbytery supports long term recovery groups throughout the Presbytery.
HELP IN RECOVERY
The Presbytery of Coastal Carolina has an ongoing disaster recovery fund which supports recovery efforts throughout our Presbytery including this storm, past hurricanes and preparations for future disasters.
If you, or your church, would like to donate, please send your check to Presbytery of Coastal Carolina
807 W King St.
Elizabethtown, NC 28337
MEMO: Disaster Recovery
Or give online using this link:
Donate to Disaster Recovery Now
Donation Service Provided by the Presbyterian Foundation
If you are interested to support disaster recovery efforts both in the USA and other countries including island nations, please give to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance