2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Ends with Record Activity and Intensified Storms

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season reported 18 named storms, including 11 hurricanes and 5 major hurricanes. Following an energetic start, a significant lull marked mid-season activity before a resurgence led to six storms developing in September and October. High sea surface temperatures attributed to climate change heightened hurricane intensity, particularly for Hurricanes Helene and Milton, raising concerns over future storm impacts.

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season concludes with overall significant activity, distinguishing itself with 18 named tropical storms. Of these storms, 11 achieved hurricane strength, while five attained major hurricane status, categorizing as level three or higher. Despite an average season typically yielding 14 storms, the disruption of typical patterns led to a remarkably quiet mid-season, creating an unusual ebb in storm activity. Pre-season prognostications anticipated above-average activity, which was initially validated by Hurricane Beryl, the earliest recorded category five hurricane, striking in early July and inflicting substantial damage across the Caribbean and southern Texas.

Nevertheless, following Beryl’s dissipation, there was a stark lull marked by only four additional named storms before Hurricane Helene emerged in late September, escalating to a catastrophic category four hurricane upon landfall in Florida. Helene earned the grim distinction of being the deadliest hurricane in the continental United States since Hurricane Katrina, claiming over 150 lives. This resurgence in storm activity resulted in seven significant storms towards the end of the season, with the highlight being Hurricane Milton, exhibiting one of the most remarkable instances of rapid intensification, peaking at category five strength.

Tropical Storm Sara marked the season’s conclusion, contributing notable rainfall but failing to escalate into hurricane status. Observations indicate that elevated sea temperatures, which were approximately 1°C above the 1991-2020 average, heavily influenced hurricane activity. Climate Central’s analysis suggests that human-induced climate change has significantly impacted wind speeds and rainfall intensity in hurricanes, including Milton, with the potential to intensify imminent storms. Moving forward, while the frequency of hurricanes may not increase, it appears that those which do occur will likely intensify more rapidly, presenting increased hazards for affected regions.

The Atlantic hurricane season, running from June 1 to November 30, typically sees its peak during early September. In 2024, meteorological forecasts predicted an exceptional season, however, after an energetic start, mid-season revealed an unexpected lack of significant storm activity, defying initial expectations. Factors contributing to this anomaly included a shift in weather patterns affecting storm formation locations and the presence of Saharan dust. Despite these fluctuations, high sea surface temperatures persisted, demonstrating an indication of the possibility for potent storms as the season progressed, culminating in several significant hurricanes in quick succession later in the season.

In summary, the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season exhibited contrasting phases, beginning with unprecedented activity followed by an atypical mid-season lull and culminating in a resurgence of storms. Notable hurricanes like Helene and Milton showcased the growing intensity of hurricanes, potentially exacerbated by climate change. While the season resulted in numerous named storms, the overarching findings suggest potential dangers from rapid intensification and rainfalls in future hurricane events, underscoring the importance of continued climate research and hurricane preparedness efforts.

Original Source: www.bbc.com