The Atlantic hurricane season of 2024 was marked by its exceptional intensity and heightened activity, as highlighted in the latest report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This year, there were a total of 18 named storms, 11 of which developed into hurricanes, and five reaching category three or higher on the Saffir-Simpson scale. These numbers set new records when compared to the historical averages (1991-2020) of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes, according to NOAA.
The Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index, a measure of the strength and duration of storms, saw a 34% increase over the historical average, underscoring the potency of the 2024 events. The U.S. official weather agency noted that November also experienced higher-than-usual cyclonic activity, with three named storms forming during the month.
Among these, Hurricane Rafael stood out as a category three storm that wreaked havoc near Jamaica and the Cayman Islands before making landfall in western Cuba. This activity surpassed typical statistics, which suggest November usually sees a tropical storm every one to two years and a hurricane every two years.
Besides Rafael, storms Patty and Sara also made significant impacts. Patty affected the Azores, while Sara lingered near the coast of Honduras before striking Belize. NOAA emphasized that the 2024 season will be remembered as one of the most active and destructive in the Atlantic.
Cuban meteorologist Raydel Ruisánchez reported on Facebook that the 2024 hurricane season resulted in 378 deaths and economic losses exceeding $140 billion, making it one of the costliest seasons on record. Among these systems, two were category five hurricanes, an occurrence that had been recorded only in five previous seasons (2005, 2007, 2017, 2019).
Hurricane Beryl set a new record as the earliest category five cyclone ever recorded, while Hurricane Milton ranked as the fifth most intense in the Atlantic basin and the most powerful worldwide this year. One of the most devastating storms was Helene, which struck Florida on September 26 as a destructive category four hurricane, causing over 150 deaths and widespread damage from the Gulf of Mexico to the mountains of North Carolina.
Impacts of the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season
How did the 2024 hurricane season compare to historical averages?
The 2024 hurricane season exceeded historical averages with 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes, breaking previous records.
What was the economic impact of the 2024 hurricane season?
The season resulted in economic losses over $140 billion, making it one of the most expensive in history.
Which hurricanes were the most significant in 2024?
Hurricanes Beryl, Milton, and Helene were among the most significant, with Beryl being the earliest category five ever recorded.