Storm Surge Sensor During Hurricane Irene

During hurricanes the USGS deploys storm-surge monitoring instruments along the coasts, sounds, and bays in impacted areas to gauge how high hurricanes push water in rivers, bays and other areas. The sensors are crucial for forecasting future storms and assessing hurricane damage. They are strapped to structures expected to survive the storm, such as bridge piers, light poles, and fire hydrants. Shown here is  USGS employee Curtis Weaver holding a storm surge sensor and housing.