Carolina Beach residents are facing unprecedented challenges as they navigate the aftermath of destructive flooding. Daryll McCaskill, a resident, described the overwhelming experience of dealing with the unforeseen magnitude of the flooding that left his cherished family home in ruins. The property, rented until recently, suffered significant damage from Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight, leaving McCaskill at a loss on where to even begin the recovery process.
The floodwaters infiltrated McCaskill’s home, with the front house submerged in 14 inches of water and the back house in 20 inches, compounding the devastation. Adding to the difficulties, McCaskill revealed the lack of flood insurance, a decision based on the belief that their home was not susceptible to flooding—a choice that now presents significant financial challenges.
The streets of Carolina Beach remain lined with damaged furniture, remnants of the destruction wrought by the recent disaster. While the community shows resilience in coming together to assist with the cleanup, the process of rebuilding is underway. Nearby, local businesses, including Max Sussman’s The Veggie Wagon, are also on the path of recovery after suffering substantial losses due to the flooding.
Sussman, no stranger to adversity, recounts the loss of his business for the second time, having previously rebuilt after Hurricane Florence. Despite the hardships, he remains optimistic, expressing a determination to persevere and rebuild once again if necessary. The strength and unity displayed by residents and business owners in the face of adversity reflect a shared belief in brighter days ahead, even as memories of navigating through floodwaters linger.