This blog post examines the extraordinary account of Alexis Deleon, a novice sailor who began sailing in February and found herself aboard her sailboat in a North Carolina sound while Hurricane Erin passed through.
Drawing on her interview with FOX Weather, the post explores the risks, resilience, and lessons from confronting a powerful storm so early in a sailing career. It offers expert perspective and practical safety guidance for other sailors.
A novice sailor confronted by a major storm
Alexis Deleon’s story is compelling because it combines personal determination with the raw unpredictability of nature.
After only a few months on the water, Deleon chose to remain aboard as Hurricane Erin moved through the region. She positioned herself along a North Carolina sound to ride out the storm.
What happened and why it matters
In an interview with FOX Weather, Deleon described the experience of facing a hurricane from the deck of her own sailboat.
Her account highlights the physical challenges — wind, waves, debris — and the psychological pressure of making life-or-death decisions under stress.
The incident is a stark reminder that sailing during hurricane season carries elevated risks, particularly for those still gaining experience.
Key takeaways from Deleon’s experience
There are several important lessons that both new and experienced sailors can draw from this event.
While every situation at sea is unique, Deleon’s trial by fire illustrates common themes that are valuable for safe seamanship.
Lessons for sailors, especially beginners
Preparation and timing matter. Choosing to remain on a vessel as a hurricane approaches increases exposure to harm.
For novices, the margin for error is smaller. Practical skills like anchoring, storm sail selection, and secure stowage are typically still developing.
Location matters. Deleon was positioned in a sound — waters that are often more sheltered than the open ocean but can still experience extreme wind and chopping seas during a hurricane.
Understanding the local geography is critical when deciding where to seek refuge.
Practical safety guidance from a 30-year sailing veteran
As someone with decades of experience on the water, I offer the following concise recommendations for sailors who may face severe weather or want to avoid similar situations.
Immediate steps and longer-term preparedness
Immediate safety actions:
Longer-term preparation:
Balancing adventure and prudence
Deleon’s decision to remain on her boat reflects admirable resilience and commitment to her vessel.
At the same time, it underscores how quickly an adventurous choice can cross into danger when the elements escalate.
The sea rewards respect and preparation; curiosity and courage must be matched with knowledge.
Final thoughts
Alexis Deleon’s encounter with Hurricane Erin is an instructive narrative at the intersection of personal adventure and extreme weather.
For the sailing community — especially newcomers — it’s a vivid case study: learn from the experience and improve preparedness.
Let respect for the ocean guide every decision.
Staying safe during hurricane season is not just about skill, but also about prudent choices and timely actions.
Here is the source article for this story: TikToker riding out Hurricane Erin in North Carolina | Latest Weather Clips