On August 10, 1778, a slow moving hurricane moved up the east of the Colonies. The storm resulted in extensive damage in eastern NC, and then moved up the coast offshore. As the Hurricane battered the ships the French ships were larger and sustained the heaviest damage. The smaller British ships had a chance to capitalize on the situation avoiding the worst of the storm by their greater maneuverability but because of the severity of the storm they were blown away from the French fleet and had to re-group over the next few days. The severity of the hurricane cost the British precious time to press their advantage of maneuverability and greater numbers. By the time the British squadron had come back together on the 13th more French ships had arrived on the scene and an opportunity lost. The French now controlled that part of the coast in a significant aid to the American Revolution. 

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