Hurricane Hazel

1954

Hurricane Hazel holds a significant place in the history of North Myrtle Beach, as it was one of the most destructive storms to ever strike the region. The hurricane, which made landfall on October 15, 1954, is remembered for its immense power and the lasting impact it had on the area.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

Overview of Hurricane Hazel:

1. Category and Strength:

   • Hazel was a Category 4 hurricane when it struck the South Carolina-North Carolina border near Little River, just north of North Myrtle Beach.

   • Sustained winds were estimated at 140 mph, with gusts reaching even higher speeds, making it one of the strongest storms to ever make landfall in the state.

2. Storm Surge and Damage:

   • The storm brought a storm surge of up to 18 feet, devastating the coastline of North Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas. Entire beachfront neighborhoods were wiped out, and the geography of the shoreline was altered.

   • Hazel destroyed nearly all oceanfront structures in North Myrtle Beach. Homes, piers, and businesses along the coastline were reduced to rubble.

   • Damage extended several miles inland, with fallen trees, flooding, and wind-related destruction affecting a wide area.

3. Loss of Life:

   • Across the U.S., Hurricane Hazel claimed 95 lives, with additional fatalities reported in Haiti and Canada, where the storm also caused significant destruction.

4. Economic Impact:

   • In North Myrtle Beach, the financial toll was immense. The local economy, heavily reliant on tourism, suffered greatly as infrastructure and accommodations were decimated.

   • Reconstruction took years, with many residents and business owners rebuilding their properties from scratch.

Legacy in North Myrtle Beach:

1. Community Resilience:

   • The destruction caused by Hazel marked a turning point for the region. While the storm wreaked havoc, it also spurred efforts to build more resilient infrastructure and improve disaster preparedness.

   • The local community demonstrated remarkable resilience, with many residents returning to rebuild their homes and businesses better than before.

2. Development Boom:

   • In the years following Hazel, North Myrtle Beach saw significant redevelopment. Modern building codes and better planning helped transform the area into a more robust tourist destination.

3. Cultural Memory:

   • Hurricane Hazel remains a touchstone in local history, frequently recounted in stories of survival and resilience. Older residents often share their memories of the storm with younger generations, keeping its legacy alive.

   • Local museums and historical societies sometimes highlight Hazel in exhibits focusing on hurricanes and their impact on the Grand Strand.

Hurricane Hazel was a defining moment for North Myrtle Beach, reshaping its landscape and the spirit of its community. The storm's aftermath demonstrated the area's ability to rebuild and thrive, setting the stage for its growth into a vibrant coastal destination.