In September 2024, Hurricane Helene unleashed 30 inches of rain in western North Carolina, leading to devastating landslides, the destruction of major highways, and tragic loss of life, with over 30 fatalities reported. Thousands of trees were downed, and entire towns faced displacement as the storm wreaked havoc. “North Carolina is flooding more than ever before,” states Miyuki Hino, a prominent flood researcher.
Antonia “Toni” Sebastian, another researcher, highlights a concerning trend: “In eastern North Carolina, we”ve estimated that almost half of flooded buildings are outside of the floodplain, most of which were uninsured.” She adds that many communities experiencing repeated flooding may lack the financial resources to effectively cope with such disasters.
The duo, both affiliated with UNC-Chapel Hill, has dedicated over a decade to researching flooding challenges. Hino, a social scientist and public policy expert, focuses on the impacts of extreme weather events on communities. Meanwhile, Sebastian, an engineer and hydrologist, develops models to understand the evolution of flooding and other natural hazards, exploring both technical and policy-based strategies to lessen future impacts.
Since their arrival at Carolina in 2020, as part of a cluster hire focused on environment, energy, and ecology, they have collaborated closely, sharing lab space, students, and occasionally projects. Together, they are preparing the next generation of scientists to confront the complexities of flooding with innovative approaches.
According to data from NOAA”s National Centers for Environmental Information, North Carolina has encountered 121 weather and climate disaster events from 1980 to 2024, each with losses exceeding $1 billion.
In her research on compound flooding, Sebastian examines the convergence of inland and coastal floods. Her team is mapping flood zones across the Carolinas with unprecedented detail, providing insights into storm interactions with the landscape. “Tropical cyclones are becoming wetter, and their speed may be decreasing,” Sebastian explains.
Moreover, Sebastian is pioneering an innovative method for monitoring disaster recovery. By utilizing artificial intelligence to analyze 360-degree images of neighborhoods affected by storms, captured by a GoPro mounted on a vehicle, she aims to equip local and state agencies with a rapid, scalable tool to assess community recovery. If successful, this technology could evaluate 300 to 400 structures within hours, offering vital information for decision-makers.
While Sebastian focuses on modeling and predicting future storm impacts, Hino engages directly with communities affected by these disasters. Her research investigates the broader consequences of extreme weather, including effects on property values and migration decisions. “If you flood once, you might think it”s a fluke,” Hino remarks. “But what if you experience flooding multiple times? Does that change your decision to stay or relocate?”
Ultimately, Hino aims to inspire government entities at all levels to develop improved policies. “We shape the outcomes of disasters, from site selection to construction practices and post-disaster assistance,” she asserts. “By enhancing our understanding of the impacts, we can create more effective systems to manage weather events and mitigate their disastrous consequences.”
For further insights into their flood research, additional information is available.
