The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1, with alarming forecasts predicting it to be the most active in the last 30 years. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the United States reminded on Saturday that the hurricane season will extend from June 1 to November 30.
While NOAA reported that "the tropics will remain relatively calm for at least the next 7 days," it warned in its annual pre-season report released in late May that this year is expected to be the most active in three decades, with between 17 and 25 storms having winds exceeding 62 kilometers per hour.
Rick Spinrad, NOAA administrator, highlighted in a press conference that this forecast is the highest the agency has ever issued in its usual May report. In a typical season, there are about seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes with maximum sustained winds of 178 km/h or more.
Factors Leading to High Activity
The anticipated high activity in the Atlantic basin is attributed to a combination of favorable factors for storm formation. These include near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic and the development of La Niña conditions in the Pacific. NOAA notes that the reduction of Atlantic trade winds and lower wind shear will contribute to a season with a higher-than-average number of cyclones, surpassing the usual 14 named storms.
Erik Hooks, deputy administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), warned that storms are already appearing across the country, capable of bringing additional hazards such as tornadoes, floods, and hail.
Given these predictions, which specialists in neighboring Cuba have also agreed upon, authorities in Florida have urged the population to prepare for the impending high cyclone activity. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava met with county officials on Friday and stressed the importance of being prepared for potential tropical storms, hurricanes, floods, and extreme heat.
Meanwhile, Cuba has suspended the Meteoro 2024 exercise, which prepares the population to face disasters, due to a lack of fuel.
FAQs on the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which is expected to be highly active.
Why is the 2024 hurricane season expected to be so active?
The high activity is due to a combination of near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic and the development of La Niña conditions in the Pacific, among other favorable factors.
What are the predicted numbers of storms and hurricanes for the 2024 season?
NOAA predicts between 17 and 25 storms with winds exceeding 62 kilometers per hour, with seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes expected.
How long does the 2024 hurricane season last?
The 2024 hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30.
What preparations should residents in high-risk areas undertake?
Residents are advised to prepare for potential tropical storms, hurricanes, floods, and extreme heat by staying informed, securing property, and having emergency supplies ready.