The 2024 hurricane season was marked by excessive storm activity, including 18 named storms and five major hurricanes impacting the United States. It was notable for two Category 5 hurricanes and is now among the costliest in history, with damages exceeding $191 billion. The season also featured Hurricane Helene, the deadliest in years, and Hurricane Milton, the strongest globally.
The 2024 hurricane season officially closed with unprecedented activity, making it among the most expensive years on record. This season marked the first instance of multiple Category 5 hurricanes since 2019, resulting in substantial devastation across the Atlantic. It witnessed the development of 18 named storms, of which 11 escalated to hurricanes, including five mahgical storms. Of these hurricanes, eight made landfall, with five impacting the United States.
Despite a slower-than-usual start with Tropical Storm Alberto forming on June 19, the season marked the ninth consecutive year of above-average tropical cyclone activity. The average norms of a season include 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes. One of the most notable phenomena was Hurricane Beryl, which registered as the earliest Category 5 hurricane in the Atlantic basin.
Following Beryl, Hurricane Debby brought significant rainfall and power outages to Florida, while Hurricane Francine caused severe inland flooding in Louisiana. Hurricane Helene emerged as the most destructive of the season, causing widespread devastation along the Gulf Coast and contributing to over 150 fatalities in the southeastern United States, labelling it the “Hurricane Katrina” of the Appalachians.
Hurricane Milton, the strongest storm of the year globally, compounded the destruction in the Atlantic with record low atmospheric pressures, adding to the $191 billion in damages tallied for the season. The cumulative impact of these storms made 2024 the second most costly hurricane season, following 2017’s record.
Despite predictions suggesting an active year with 17 to 24 named storms, the peak months revealed a brief lull before several storms revitalized the season in September. The year set a record for five landfalling hurricanes and was noted for the smallest hurricane force-wind field created by Oscar. Ultimately, the 2024 season highlighted the volatility of tropical weather systems fueled by elevated sea surface temperatures and exceptional atmospheric conditions that shaped significant hurricanes.
In recent decades, hurricane seasons in the Atlantic have demonstrated variability influenced by climatic patterns and sea surface temperatures. Such factors can amplify the intensity of storms, resulting in a higher rate of landfall and overall damage. Over the last several years, emergency management agencies have adapted to these changes, and thus, seasonal outlooks have become increasingly critical for regional preparedness and response operations. The 2024 hurricane season serves as a significant case study in this ongoing evolution of tropical cyclone behavior and its direct impacts on the United States and surrounding regions.
The 2024 hurricane season stands out not only for its elevated number of storms but also for the sheer intensity and damage inflicted by major hurricanes. The combination of record-breaking conditions, including the earliest Category 5 hurricanes and severe inland flooding, highlighted the unpredictable nature of tropical storms in the current era. With more than $191 billion in damages incurred, this season is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the importance of preparedness in mitigating future impacts.
Original Source: www.wmnf.org
