The 2020 Hurricane Season was record breaking in its intensity. According to NOAA and the National Hurricane Center, In total, the 2020 season produced 30 named storms (top winds of 39 mph or greater), of which 13 became hurricanes (top winds of 74 mph or greater), including six major hurricanes (top winds of 111 mph or greater). While many of the storms grazed the Mississippi Gulf Coast during the beginning of the season the final blow was the direct landfall of the eastern eyewall of Hurricane Zeta at Bay St Louis Municipal Harbor with sustained winds of 105mph and a recorded surge of 10 feet. While damage all along the Mississippi Coast was devastating. Most property south of Highway 90, or near the water was destroyed or significantly damaged. While the S/V Coastal Wanderer remained in its slip and afloat, damage to the vessel was catastrophic, and caused the loss of the engine, interior electronics, solar systems, main sail, some standing rigging, lifelines and lighting. The vessel was considered a total loss by the insurance company and scrapped as salvage.
The concept of coastal exploration and outreach will continue to evolve, using vessels from friends along the coast who were a little more fortunate, this project will continue!
Hurricane Zeta - 2020
S/V Wanderer following Hurricane Zeta. Damage was Considered a Total Loss by Insurance.
