Nearly four decades ago, the astute observations of Robert Dolan, a distinguished coastal geologist at the University of Virginia, cast a spotlight on the precarious situation of the Outer Banks. Nestled along the eastern coast of the United States, these picturesque barrier islands have long captivated travelers and tourists with their natural beauty. Yet, beneath their serene exterior lies a coastal conundrum that Dolan foresaw, one that continues to challenge both nature and human ingenuity.