Waterspout Event Results in Damage at Avalon Pier in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Waterspout Formation Causes Damage in Kill Devil Hills

In a surprising turn of events, the coastal city of Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina experienced a dramatic weather phenomenon on Sunday afternoon. Around 2:15 PM, a waterspout formed near the shoreline, leading to damage at the well-known Avalon Pier.

Eyewitness Accounts Describe the Chaos

Resident Jared Thompson was under the pier during the storm, seeking shelter from the rain. As he recounted, “All of a sudden it just swept everything off of the beach, and everything landed in the water. It just sucked everything out like a vacuum.”

The sight was both astonishing and alarming for those nearby. Thompson noted that, despite the destruction, it felt like a miracle that no one was seriously injured. He mentioned, “A skin board slammed into somebody’s leg and broke in half, and I don’t know how he didn’t get hurt.”

A Historic Incident for Locals

This was a rare occurrence for Thompson, who claims to have lived in the Outer Banks for over 51 years. He expressed his astonishment, stating, “I thought it was just a gust of wind. I’ve seen a lot of weird things, but that was really weird.” The local community is now left to assess the extent of the damage to the pier and the surrounding areas.

Ongoing Updates and Precautions

As officials begin to gather information about the aftermath of the waterspout, residents and visitors are encouraged to stay alert and monitor updates about the situation. With unpredictable weather patterns becoming more common, it’s vital to prioritize safety and preparedness.