Not having a day trip in mind for this week, on Monday, we decided on the spur of the moment to drive to the Outer Banks to see the ocean’s wrath. She was angry as a result of Hurricane Joaquin, which thankfully, turned out to sea before reaching the east coast.
We had learned that a section of the “beach road”, Highway 12, which runs along the ocean, had been destroyed by ocean wash. As we approached that area, we noticed the spray from the ocean coming over the dune. The grass looked as if it had been sprayed with artificial snow.
We just happened to be there around the time of high tide. Motor Man took this picture; that’s me on the right, recording a video of a wave coming over the highway.
Although it was raining, and the wind was strong, people were coming to see not only the damage to the road, but also the power of the ocean. (That’s my Motor Man on the far right.)
Every time I thought I’d taken enough pictures and was ready to leave, I’d see another huge wave coming ashore, and I’d keep snapping.
This section of highway was damaged by a storm back in the spring and repaired soon afterward. See the wooden beach access walkway in the background?
Motor Man and I were there in May and walked out on that access. You can see the newly-completed repair of the highway.
And that beach house in the distance right on the ocean? That’s Pelican’s Watch, and she’s still standing!
I apologize for the shakiness of this video; the wind was so strong, I was having a difficult time holding my cell phone still.
Once again, Motor Man had a great idea for a day trip. The ocean was angry/beautiful and a sight to witness. We were sad to see the damage it was causing, but thankful that it wasn’t worse.
~These Days Of Mine~
these days of mine 
THanks so much for posting these pics & the video! I grew up near the outer banks and have heard on the news the storm was bad, but this post really makes it clear – so glad it wasn’t worse!!
Indeed it could have been so much worse but I bet they have this damage repaired quickly……the sea is powerful and I think sometimes people forget that when they see how BEAUTIFUL it is too! Great photos.
Pam
Angry/beautiful – perfect words to describe the scene. Thanks for the visual.
I agree, it could have been so much worse. My heart goes out to the people in South Carolina.
Great pictures! It’s all part of living on the OBX. This will all be repaired and Kitty Hawk will soon begin beach replenishment and we will have another wonderful summer at the beach!
I know it will all be cleaned up and restored but yes, it is sad. Love seeing the beach house still standing!!!!!!!!
Something to see ….
Pelican’s Watch weathered it, for sure !
How did the horses do with this storm?
I agree with Marshall, it is certainly something to view. This is the dark side of the ocean but the beautiful side with be back again. My prayers go out to everyone who was affected by these two storms here and other states.
Thank you for taking us with you on your visit; that ocean was indeed angry. Your pictures are amazing! MJ
Wow! The noise must have been deafening. Very different from the Autumn weather in central Illinois.
Water with an attitude!