Dauphin Island Times
Dauphin Island Information and NewsUSGS lidar analysis of Dauphin Island post-Katrina
The USGS has a fascinating analysis of the effects on Dauphin Island from Hurricane Katrina. Researchers used a highly accurate airborne laser mapping system known as LIDAR to measure elevation data to create images of Dauphin Island before and after Hurricane Katrina.
The image below is a composite from two images in the article referenced below. The images were overlayed, scaled, and animated to demonstrate the dramatic changes to the Dauphin Island landscape.
In a cooperative research program, the USGS, NASA and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) are using airborne laser mapping systems to survey coastal areas before and after hurricanes. As the aircraft flies along the coast, a laser altimeter (lidar) scans a several hundred meter wide swath of the earth's surface acquiring an estimate of ground elevation approximately every square meter. The elevation data from different flights can be compared to determine the patterns and magnitudes of coastal change (erosion, overwash, etc.) and the loss (or gain) of buildings and infrastructure.
Click the image for an animation of the effects of Hurricane Katrina. (512kb download)
Fortunately for vacationers and property owners, this depiction is among the worst of the devastated areas on Dauphin Island. In general, the damage to the island intensifies to the west. Although many businesses on Dauphin Island are not yet back up and running full-time, the rebuilding effort is well underway. Vacationers and visitors to Dauphin Island will find ample vacation rental properties available in the coming months, with more becoming available as time goes on.