The Colony of Avalon archaeological site in Ferryland experienced flooding during those intense winds over the weekend, and those who work at the site worry that could be an indicator of more damaging weather patterns to come.

Dr. Barry Gaulton, the chief archaeologist at the site and professor of archaeology at MUN says a “terrible combination” of fall high tides and storm surge has been causing seasonal flooding at the site.

He says they have been tracking the impacts for about the last 20 years and it seems as though the intensity and frequency of the events are worsening, meaning that the site could suffer damage through erosion.

If such events continue, in the long term Gaulton explains that the province may have to infill parts of the site for long-term preservation.

He says the long-term damage could be substantial and devastating.