All signs point to an exceptionally active 2024 Hurricane Season. Colorado State University’s experts predict 23 tropical storms, 11 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes. For comparison, the average hurricane season saw 14 tropical storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes. What’s behind these unprecedented numbers, and what do they mean for residents of hurricane-prone zones? Let’s explore the key factors shaping this year’s hurricane season.
Hurricane Season 2024 Predictions
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season predictions are off the charts, with Colorado State University experts projecting 23 storms, 115 storm days, and 11 hurricanes – far above the norm. Meanwhile, the University of Pennsylvania’s Mann Research Group predicts an even higher range of 27 to 39 storms, settling at an estimated 33 storms for the season. Last year’s fourth-most-named storm season saw 20 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes. By comparison, in ’23 – the 4th most-named storm year since 1950 – the Atlantic basin saw 20 named storms. 7 of those were hurricanes, and 3 intensified to significant hurricanes. What’s fueling these alarming predictions?
Climate Conditions
Climate conditions are critical factors in forecasting hurricane activity. El Niño and El Niña patterns can significantly influence Atlantic hurricane formation. Last year’s hurricane season occurred during an El Niño, a pattern of decreasing tropical activity. Hurricanes are less likely to form during El Niño because of vertical wind shear and cooler water temperatures. The 2024 hurricane season will likely see a La Niña. This shift could negatively impact the upcoming hurricane season in the Atlantic basin.
La Niña Influence
La Niña favors the formation of a more significant number of stronger hurricanes in the Atlantic basin because, during La Niña, the intensity of winds in the atmosphere’s upper levels over the Atlantic weakens. There is no significant change in the speed or direction of those winds concerning their height, allowing the development of more intense hurricanes. Although La Niña occurs in the Pacific basin, it can still influence weather in the Atlantic Ocean.
Sea Surface Temperatures
Warm ocean waters are a critical factor in the formation and intensification of hurricanes. These elevated sea surface temperatures provide the necessary energy to power these storms. Forecasts for 2024 anticipate above-average ocean temperatures in the tropical Atlantic, particularly in the Main Development Region (MDR), where many significant hurricanes originate. This heightened warmth may contribute to a more active hurricane season. The eastern and central tropical Atlantic are experiencing significantly warmer sea surface temperatures this year, creating favorable conditions for hurricane development. The increased heat energy from warmer waters poses a greater risk of more intense and powerful hurricanes.
Boost Your Hurricane Preparedness: Secure Your Home and Family
While preparing for any hurricane season is essential, an above-average forecast requires more attention and serious preparation. One of the most important things is to secure your property. Windows and doors are critical points for your house’s safety. When compromised, the protection of the property and its residents is compromised as well. To protect your home from the storm, consider impact-resistant doors and windows or tested & certified hurricane shutters combined with standard doors & windows. Indoors B.V. sells Miami-Dade County-tested & certified hurricane shutters for high-velocity hurricane zones – tested to withstand winds up to over 200 Mph. If you already have hurricane shutters, inspect them thoroughly and perform all required fixes immediately. To ensure your hurricane shutters work up to their maximum potential, book your hurricane shutters inspection with Indoors B.V. Our experts will check the condition of your shutters, replace all broken parts if needed, and perform necessary repairs.
Caribbean residents should be exceptionally prepared for increased storm activity. It’s essential to have emergency plans in place, secure property, and stay informed through official weather channels as the season progresses. Every individual and family living in hurricane-prone areas should have a plan. This includes assembling emergency kits, securing homes, and staying informed through official sources. Click here to learn more about how to prepare for a hurricane.
Preparing for 2024 Hurricane Season: Caution, Readiness, and Protection
Hot ocean temperatures across much of the Atlantic, coupled with the shift from El Niño to La Niña conditions in the tropical Pacific by peak hurricane season, are driving an increase in the number and potential intensity of hurricanes this year. As we look ahead to the 2024 hurricane season, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and readiness.
It only takes one hurricane to cause significant damage and disruption. Stay informed and take proactive measures to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your community. Utilize available tools to navigate this upcoming hurricane season with resilience and preparedness. Don’t delay—ensure the safety of your property and loved ones now!
Contact Indoors B.V. to schedule your hurricane shutter inspection or secure your property with Miami-Dade County-tested and certified hurricane shutters. Caribbeans know the destructive power of nature well. Let’s prepare accordingly.
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