The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season concluded with 11 hurricanes, significantly above the average. Notable storms included Hurricane Beryl, the first Category 4 hurricane in June, and Hurricane Helene, the deadliest storm this season. The effects of unusually warm ocean temperatures were highlighted as key contributors to the intensity of storms, raising concerns about climate change implications.
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season concluded on Saturday, showcasing an unusually active year with 11 hurricanes, eclipsing the average of seven. Meteorologists described this season as “crazy busy,” attributing it partly to elevated ocean temperatures. Notably, eight hurricanes made landfall in various locations including the U.S., Bermuda, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic.
Among these, Hurricane Beryl notably formed as the first recorded Category 4 hurricane in June, striking Carriacou in Grenada, resulting in devastating impacts on crops and infrastructure in Jamaica, alongside two fatalities. This season also marked the earliest occurrence of a Category 5 hurricane in the Atlantic on July 1. Typically, storms of this magnitude do not appear before September 1 according to the National Hurricane Center.
September saw Hurricane Helene wreak havoc across the southeastern United States, leading to more than 200 fatalities and extensive destruction. North Carolina alone faced approximately $48.8 billion in damages from this storm, affecting homes, agricultural systems, and water infrastructure across several states, including Florida and Georgia.
In October, Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified, boasting wind speeds of up to 180 mph, making it one of the most powerful hurricanes recorded in the Gulf of Mexico, second only to Hurricane Rita in 2005. Both Helene and Milton contributed to rainfall levels reaching three times their normal average for the period, setting records in Asheville, Tampa, and Orlando.
November brought Hurricane Rafael, which reached maximum speeds of 120 mph, nearly breaking the record for the strongest November hurricane in the Gulf, as it struck Cuba while the island was still recovering from Hurricane Oscar.
Hurricane formation attributes, particularly unusually warm ocean temperatures, were emphasized by experts. Brian McNoldy remarked on the unprecedented strength of storms emerging at atypical seasons, signaling changing patterns. “I do not ever point to climate change as causing a specific weather event, but it certainly has its finger on the scale and makes these extreme storms more likely to occur,” he stated.
The Atlantic hurricane season is a yearly meteorological phenomenon that spans from June 1 to November 30, during which tropical cyclones can develop in the Atlantic Ocean. Variations in sea surface temperatures, atmospheric conditions, and climatic factors influence the frequency and intensity of hurricanes. Historical data indicates an average of approximately seven hurricanes per season, yet this can fluctuate drastically due to various environmental factors. The recent seasons have reportedly seen an increase in activity, raising awareness regarding potential links to climate change.
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was characterized by an unusual increase in hurricane frequency and intensity, culminating in extensive damage and loss of life across multiple regions. With 11 hurricanes recorded, including several notable storms that set new records for intensity and timing, the necessity for a deeper understanding of the contributing factors, including possible climatic influences, is underscored. This year’s events illustrate the pressing need for enhanced preparedness and mitigation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Original Source: nsjonline.com
