Finger-like projections visible as small overwash fans after Bertha were greatly extended after Fran. The large difference between these deposits show the value of surveying the undeveloped coastline for understanding geologic processes. Many piers damaged during Bertha were destroyed during Fran. The pier at Topsail Beach sustained only minor damage after Bertha and was open a few days after the storm. Storm waves from Fran removed the section of the pier closest to the beach.
Sand extends to third row of houses and appears to come from the left.
The dune line in front of the apartments seems intact with minor erosion at the base after the passage of Bertha. After Fran, the dune was eroded to the first line of houses, leaving a new scalloped scarp line. In a few places the dune was breached. The duneline, which was eroded but remained intact during Bertha, was destroyed and overwashed during Fran. Erosion has undercut many houses causing severe damage or total destruction.