Final answer:
Heavy storms off the coast of Alabama generally cause erosion of beaches, damaging local ecosystems and potentially leading to property damage. Waves and storm surges from these storms can lead to significant coastline changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
A large storm with heavy rain and high winds off the coast of Alabama would likely result in erosion of beaches. Such storms, especially when they include a storm surge, can wash away sand, vegetation, and even land, leading to a loss of beachfront rather than an expansion. This process can also negatively impact marine life by destroying habitats such as reefs and sea grass beds, which are crucial for preserving biodiversity and sustaining local fisheries and tourism. Additionally, erosion can lead to the collapse of sandy shores and cause property damage. Dredging efforts to counteract erosion can also have detrimental effects by causing greater storm impact on shorelines and damaging ecosystems.