2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Overview: Activity, Records, and Advances in Forecasting
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, ending on November 30, featured 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes, aligning with NOAA predictions. Significant storms included Hurricane Beryl, the earliest Category-5 hurricane, and Hurricane Helene, which caused severe flooding and over 150 fatalities. This season also highlighted advancements in forecasting technology and the ongoing efforts of NOAA’s Hurricane Hunter aircraft in gathering critical data for future hurricane preparedness.
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, concluding on November 30, exhibited above-average activity marked by a record-heavy increase after a typical peak period lull. During this season, a total of 18 named storms emerged, with 11 developing into hurricanes and five transforming into major hurricanes. Notably, five hurricanes made landfall in the continental United States, including two major hurricanes. This activity fell within the expected ranges outlined by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center in their August 2024 Hurricane Season Outlook, which anticipates an average of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.
Post-peak activity surged, with twelve named storms forming after the climatological peak in early September, including seven hurricanes that developed after September 25—a record for this late period. According to Matthew Rosencrans, the lead hurricane forecaster at NOAA, the season began intensely, experienced a temporary relaxation, then roared back, influenced by severe wind and rain conditions over Western Africa that hampered earlier storm development.
The season featured remarkable records, with Hurricane Beryl becoming the earliest Category-5 hurricane in the Atlantic. The storm caused widespread flooding upon making landfall near Matagorda, Texas. Hurricane Helene, which made landfall as a Category-4 storm on the Gulf Coast, resulted in catastrophic flooding, primarily in North Carolina and South Carolina, and recorded over 150 fatalities.
Among the noteworthy storms, Hurricane Milton, which struck near Siesta Key, Florida, as a Category-3 storm, produced a devastating tornado outbreak concurrent with torrential rains. The rapid intensification of Milton was among the highest recorded, showcasing the capabilities of NOAA’s forecasting tools throughout the season.
Meanwhile, in the Pacific, hurricane activity remained below normal, with the eastern Pacific recording 12 named storms and the central Pacific maintaining two named storms. This season also marked advancements in hurricane forecasting, with NOAA implementing improved prediction systems. The success of the hurricane prediction frameworks was attributed to extensive flight missions conducted by NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft, which gathered critical atmospheric data and provided significant support during the 2024 season.
Hurricane seasons in the Atlantic are monitored closely due to their potential impact on communities along the coast. The 2024 season was characterized by variable storm activity, which began with a significant number of storms, experienced a lull, and concluded with an extraordinary surge in activity. The predictions made by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center indicated an expected average of storm occurrences, which the actual results matched closely. This cyclical process of storm development is influenced by various atmospheric and oceanic conditions, heavily impacting hurricane formation and intensity. The technology used in forecasting hurricanes has improved greatly in recent years, leading to more accurate predictions to protect lives and property.
In summary, the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season demonstrated an array of storm activities that ultimately aligned with NOAA’s forecasts. With 18 named storms, including significant hurricanes such as Beryl, Helene, and Milton, this season illustrated the dynamic nature of hurricane development and the importance of continued advancements in forecasting technology. The lessons learned and data gathered during this season will support future efforts in hurricane preparedness and response, as communities seek to mitigate risks associated with tropical cyclones.
Original Source: www.noaa.gov
