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2024 Atlantic hurricane season
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The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was an extremely active and destructive Atlantic hurricane season that became the third-costliest on record, behind only 2017 and 2005. The season featured 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes; it was also the first since 2019 to feature multiple Category 5 hurricanes. Additionally, the season had the highest accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) rating since 2020, with a value of 161.5 units. The season officially began on June 1, and ended on November 30. These dates, adopted by convention, have historically described the period in each year when most subtropical or tropical cyclogenesis occurs in the Atlantic Ocean.
The first system, Tropical Storm Alberto, developed on June 19, then made landfall near Tampico, Tamaulipas the next day. Afterward, two storms formed in quick succession at the end of June, with the first, Hurricane Beryl, being a rare June major hurricane, the earliest Category 5 Atlantic hurricane on record, and only the second recorded in July. Next came Tropical Storm Chris, which formed on the last day of June and quickly made landfall in Veracruz. Activity then quieted down across the basin for most of July after Beryl dissipated, with no new tropical cyclones forming due to the presence of the Saharan air layer (SAL) across much of the Atlantic. In early August, Hurricane Debby developed in the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall in Florida and South Carolina. Shortly thereafter came Hurricane Ernesto, which impacted the Lesser Antilles, Puerto Rico, Bermuda, and parts of Atlantic Canada in mid-August. After an unusual lull in activity in late August and early September, Hurricane Francine formed in the western Gulf of Mexico, then made landfall in Louisiana.
Activity dramatically increased in late September with several strong storms developing. Hurricane Helene developed over the western Caribbean before moving toward the Big Bend region of Florida and making landfall there on September 26 at Category 4 strength, causing catastrophic flooding and numerous fatalities over central Appalachia. Hurricane Kirk formed soon after and rapidly intensified into a Category 4 hurricane in the Eastern Atlantic before striking Europe as a post-tropical cyclone. October was also very active, with four named storms developing during the month, of which all but one were hurricanes. The strongest, Hurricane Milton, formed in the Gulf of Mexico and explosively intensified into the second Category 5 hurricane of the season; it was also the strongest tropical cyclone worldwide in 2024.[2] Milton later made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida, on October 9, as a Category 3 hurricane. In mid-October, Tropical Storm Nadine and Hurricane Oscar formed in quick succession, with the former quickly making landfall in Belize while the latter rapidly intensified into a Category 1 hurricane, and achieved the smallest hurricane-force wind field on record in the Atlantic. It made landfall in Inagua and Cuba. In early November, Hurricane Rafael made landfall in western Cuba at Category 3 strength, and later attained sustained winds of 120 mph (195 km/h), tying 1985's Hurricane Kate as the strongest November hurricane on record in the Gulf of Mexico.[3] In mid-November, the last system, Tropical Storm Sara, moved very slowly along the coast of Honduras, before making landfall in Belize, while producing widespread heavy rainfall resulting in severe flash flooding and mudslides across northern Central America.
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| Source | Date | Named storms |
Hurricanes | Major hurricanes |
Ref | ||||||
| Average (1991–2020) | 14.4 | 7.2 | 3.2 | [4] | |||||||
| Record high activity | 30 | 15 | 7† | [5] | |||||||
| Record low activity | 1 | 0† | 0† | [5] | |||||||
| TSR | December 11, 2023 | 20 | 9 | 4 | [6] | ||||||
| CSU | April 4, 2024 | 23 | 11 | 5 | [7] | ||||||
| MFM | April 5, 2024 | 21 | 11 | N/A | [8] | ||||||
| TSR | April 8, 2024 | 23 | 11 | 5 | [9] | ||||||
| UA | April 8, 2024 | 21 | 11 | 5 | [10] | ||||||
| MU | April 12, 2024 | 26 | 11 | 5 | [11] | ||||||
| NCSU | April 16, 2024 | 15–20 | 10–12 | 3–4 | [12] | ||||||
| UPenn | April 24, 2024 | 27–39 | N/A | N/A | [13] | ||||||
| SMN | May 6, 2024 | 20–23 | 9–11 | 4–5 | [14] | ||||||
| UKMO* | May 22, 2024 | 22 | 12 | 4 | [15] | ||||||
| NOAA | May 23, 2024 | 17–25 | 8–13 | 4–7 | [16] | ||||||
| TSR | May 30, 2024 | 24 | 12 | 6 | [17] | ||||||
| CSU | June 12, 2024 | 23 | 11 | 5 | [18] | ||||||
| UA | June 23, 2024 | 23 | 10 | 5 | [19] | ||||||
| TSR | July 5, 2024 | 26 | 13 | 6 | [20] | ||||||
| CSU | July 10, 2024 | 25 | 12 | 6 | [21] | ||||||
| TSR | August 6, 2024 | 24 | 12 | 6 | [22] | ||||||
| CSU | August 6, 2024 | 23 | 12 | 6 | [23] | ||||||
| NOAA | August 8, 2024 | 17–24 | 8–13 | 4–7 | [24] | ||||||
| Actual activity | 18 | 11 | 5 | ||||||||
| * June–November only † Most recent of several such occurrences. (See all) |
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In advance of, and during, each hurricane season, several forecasts of hurricane activity are issued by national meteorological services, scientific agencies, and noted hurricane experts. These include forecasters from the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Climate Prediction Center, Tropical Storm Risk (TSR), the United Kingdom's Met Office (UKMO), and Colorado State University (CSU). The forecasts include weekly and monthly changes in significant factors that help determine the number of tropical storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes within a particular year.[25]
According to NOAA and CSU, the average Atlantic hurricane season between 1991 and 2020 contained roughly 14 tropical storms, 7 hurricanes, 3 major hurricanes, and an accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) index of 72–111 units.[4][26] Broadly speaking, ACE is a measure of the power of a tropical or subtropical storm multiplied by the length of time it existed. It is only calculated for full advisories on specific tropical and subtropical systems reaching or exceeding wind speeds of 39 mph (63 km/h). NOAA typically categorizes a season as above-average, average, or below-average based on the cumulative ACE index, but the number of tropical storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes within a hurricane season is sometimes also considered.[4]
Pre-season forecasts
On December 11, 2023, Tropical Storm Risk (TSR) released its extended range forecast for the 2024 season, predicting an above-average season with 20 named storms, nine hurricanes and four major hurricanes.[nb 1][6] They took into account ongoing warm sea-surface temperatures (SST) throughout most of the basin, specifically in the Main Development Region and in the Caribbean Sea on top of the 2023–2024 El Niño event which was predicted to weaken to a neutral phase by August 2024.[6] TSR updated their forecast on May 30, predicting 24 named storms, 12 hurricanes, and 6 major hurricanes with an ACE of 226 units.[17] On April 4, 2024, Colorado State University (CSU) released its forecast, calling for an extremely active hurricane season, with 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes, with an ACE index of 210 units, citing the extremely warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures and the development of a La Niña by the summer.[7] On April 5, Météo-France (MFM) issued a prediction of 21 named storms and 11 hurricanes. They cited warm sea surface temperatures, wind patterns, and humidity.[8] On April 8, TSR updated their prediction, predicting 23 tropical storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes, with an accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) index of 217 units. They predicted that moderate La Niña conditions would occur in the summer and persist into fall and above average sea surface temperatures would also persist into summer.[9] On the same day, the University of Arizona (UA) posted their forecast calling for a very active season featuring 21 named storms, 11 hurricanes, 5 major hurricanes, and an ACE index of 156 units.[10] On April 12, University of Missouri (MU) issued their prediction of 26 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes.[11] On April 16, NCSU issued their prediction of 15–20 named storms, 10–12 hurricanes, and 3–4 major hurricanes.[12] On April 24, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) issued their prediction of a record-breaking season, predicting an unprecedented 33 (±6) named storms. They cited expected moderate La Niña conditions and record-warm sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic tied to large-scale warming.[13] On May 6, the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) issued their forecast of 20–23 tropical storms, 9–11 hurricanes, and 4–5 major hurricanes.[14] On May 22, UKMO published their forecast for the 2024 season, calling for 22 named storms, 12 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes, and an ACE index of 212 units.[15] One day later, NOAA published their hurricane season prediction, forecasting an above-average season of 17–25 named storms, 8–13 hurricanes, and 4–7 major hurricanes with an 85% chance of being an above-average season.[16] TSR updated their predictions on May 30 with 24 tropical storms, 12 hurricanes, and 6 major hurricanes with an ACE of 226.[17]
Mid-season forecasts
On June 11, CSU also updated its predictions, continuing to expect an extremely active season, with 23 tropical storms, 11 hurricanes, five major hurricanes, and an ACE of 210.[18] On June 23, UA updated its prediction with 23 named storms, 10 hurricanes, five major hurricanes, and an ACE of 231.[19] TSR updated its predictions on July 5 with 26 tropical storms, 13 hurricanes, and six major hurricanes with an ACE of 240.[20] On July 9, CSU updated its predictions, anticipating an even more active season, with 25 tropical storms, 12 hurricanes, six major hurricanes, and an ACE of 230.[21] On August 8, NOAA updated its prediction of the total number of named storms slightly, while still anticipating a highly active season.[24]
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Background
Officially, the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1, and ended on November 30.[28] In all, eighteen tropical cyclones formed, and all of them became named storms. Eleven storms became hurricanes, of which five strengthened into major hurricanes.[29] Additionally, one potential tropical cyclone that was designated did not develop into a tropical cyclone. Altogether, there were 12 landfalling systems this season.
This season's ACE index, as calculated officially by the National Hurricane Center (NHC), was approximately 161.5 units.[30] This number represents sum of the squares of the maximum sustained wind speed (knots) for all named storms while they are at least tropical storm intensity, divided by 10,000.
Early activity
Though the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1, it had its slowest start since 2014.[31] This was due to a large stationary heat dome over Central America and Mexico, as tropical cyclogenesis in June often occurs over the Gulf of Mexico and northern Caribbean Sea.[32] The season's first named storm, Tropical Storm Alberto, formed in the western Gulf of Mexico on June 19,[nb 2] then proceeded to make landfall on the northeastern coast of Mexico the following day.[34] Next came Hurricane Beryl, the earliest-forming Category 4 and Category 5 Atlantic hurricane on record in a season and the strongest June and July hurricane on record in the basin. After forming on June 28 in the main development region (MDR), the storm rapidly intensified as it approached the Windward Islands,< peaking as a Category 5 hurricane early on July 2.[35] Short-lived Tropical Storm Chris developed in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico on June 30, quickly moving ashore in Mexico the following morning.[36] Beryl continued on, impacting Jamaica and landfalling on the Yucatán Peninsula and Texas.[35] After Beryl dissipated on July 11, the Atlantic basin would fall under a period of inactivity due to the Saharan air layer, which suppresses tropical activity, persisting over the open Atlantic alongside dry air typically occurring during this period of the season.[37]
Activity resumed at the start of August, with Hurricane Debby developing in the Gulf of Mexico on August 3, before making landfall in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane two days later. It then slowed down over land afterwards and dropped heavy rain and caused widespread flooding in the Southeastern United States.[38] A few days after Debby dissipated, Hurricane Ernesto formed on August 12 in the Western Main Development Region. Ernesto caused damage to the Lesser Antilles on August 14 as a Category 1 hurricane. Two days later on August 16, it peaked as a Category 2 hurricane. The next day it made landfall at Bermuda as a weakening Category 1 storm.[39]
Peak to late season
Despite the unseasonably warm temperatures in the North Atlantic, the equatorial Atlantic cooled rapidly into an "Atlantic Niña" due to upwelling caused by shifts in the trade winds and the Atlantic zonal mode. The effects of an Atlantic Niña is not certain but it is contrary to the assumptions that the NOAA used in their forecast of seasonal activity.[40] CSU associated the quietness of the Atlantic during the month of August and the period after Ernesto dissipated–despite predictions of an extremely active peak period–to tropical waves forming too far north, warm upper-level winds causing destabilization, wind shear in the East Atlantic, and factors associated with the Madden–Julian oscillation.[41]
After nearly three weeks of inactivity, the longest in over fifty years at that point in the season,[42] Hurricane Francine formed on September 9.[43] Tropical Storm Gordon followed suit two days later on September 11,[44] with Francine making landfall in Louisiana as a Category 2 system later that day.[43] Four systems developed during the final week of September, starting with Hurricane Helene on September 24. The system affected the Yucatán Peninsula on September 25, before making landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida late on September 26 as a Category 4 hurricane, where it rapidly weakened into a tropical depression on September 27.[45] Hurricane Isaac formed on September 26 and later peaked as a Category 2 hurricane.[46] On September 27, Tropical Storm Joyce formed just west of the Cabo Verde Islands.[47] Activity in September ended with the formation of Hurricane Kirk on September 29, which reached its peak intensity on October 4.[48]
Early October saw the formations of Hurricanes Leslie and Milton, which, along with Kirk, marked the first time on record that there were three simultaneously active hurricanes in the Atlantic basin after September.[49][50][51] Milton notably underwent explosive rapid intensification within the Gulf of Mexico to become the second Category 5 hurricane of the season, making 2024 the first Atlantic hurricane season since 2019 to feature multiple Category 5 hurricanes. It became one of the strongest hurricanes of record in the Atlantic basin, tying Hurricane Rita for the fourth-lowest minimum central pressure for an Atlantic hurricane.[50] Later in the month, two tropical cyclones formed on October 19. Tropical Storm Nadine formed early in the day near the coast of Belize, where it made landfall a few hours later, while Hurricane Oscar formed near Turks and Caicos,[52] becoming the smallest hurricane on record in the Atlantic basin.[53][54] On November 2, Tropical Storm Patty developed from a non-tropical gale low just northeast of the Azores.[55] Next came Hurricane Rafael, which formed in the southwestern Caribbean. It made landfall in Cuba at Category 3 strength.[56] Then, in mid-November, the final storm of the season, Tropical Storm Sara formed over the western Caribbean, before striking the Yucatán and dissipated on November 18, just under two weeks before the official end of the season.[57] Overall, seven hurricanes formed after September 25, the most on record in the basin.[58]
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Tropical Storm Alberto
A Central American gyre resulted in the formation of convection over the Gulf of Tehuantepec on June 15. As the convective activity progressed northward over southeastern Mexico and exited into the Bay of Campeche, an area of low pressure gradually developed on June 17 about 105 mi (170 km) northwest of Ciudad del Carmen, Mexico. The system gradually became better organized, though still remained rather broad, developing into Tropical Storm Alberto by 12:00 UTC on June 19. Under the influence of light vertical wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures, Alberto intensified up to landfall, attaining peak winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 992 mbar (29.29 inHg) by the morning of June 20. Alberto moved ashore at 09:00 UTC that day near Tampico, Mexico, and rapidly weakened over land, dissipating just nine hours later.[34]
The storm brought heavy rainfall to the states of Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas in northeast Mexico. Alberto resulted in five deaths in Mexico, all in Nuevo León, including one in Monterrey due to river flooding, one in El Carmen, and two in Allende (the latter three were indirect electrocution deaths). AON estimated that USD$140 million in damage occurred in Mexico. Alberto's large wind field produced tropical storm-force winds along the coastline of Texas.[34] A 3–4 ft (0.9–1 m) storm surge inundated coastal communities between Corpus Christi Bay and Galveston,[34][59] damaging piers, roads, and sand dunes, as well as causing several high water rescues. One person drowned at Galveston due to rip currents generated by the storm. Alberto brought significant rainfall to the Galveston area, leading to freshwater flooding. Additionally, an EF1 tornado touched down near Bellville, causing some property damage, and two EF0 tornadoes occurred near Rockport. Damage from Alberto in Texas is estimated to be at USD$125 million.[34] To the east, coastal communities in Louisiana, especially Grand Isle, also received some flooding.[60] Additionally, several roads became impassable in Hancock County, Mississippi, due to storm surge.[61]
Hurricane Beryl
On June 23, a tropical wave exited the west coast of Africa and entered the Atlantic. After initially moving westward with little development for a few days, the wave began organizing on June 27. By 12:00 UTC on the following day, Tropical Depression Two formed about 1,380 mi (2,220 km) east of Barbados.[35] A strong subtropical ridge caused the depression to move generally west-northwestward through an unusually favorable environment for the time of year with warm sea surface temperatures (SST) and minimal wind shear, consequently beginning a period of rapid intensification.[62] The depression strengthened into Tropical Storm Beryl by 00:00 UTC June 29 and then into a hurricane about 24 hours thereafter. Beryl intensified into a Category 3 major hurricane around 12:00 UTC on June 30 and reached a peak intensity as a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 130 mph (215 km/h) six hours later. Beryl then underwent an eyewall replacement cycle and briefly weakened to a Category 3 hurricane early on July 1, but regained Category 4 strength six hours later once the cycle was completed. At 15:10 UTC the same day, Beryl made landfall in Carriacou, Grenada, with winds of 140 mph (220 km/h). After entering the Caribbean, the hurricane further intensified into a Category 5 hurricane early on July 2 and soon peaked with winds of 165 mph (270 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 932 mbar (27.5 inHg), recorded by a dropsonde.[35]
Increasing wind shear caused Beryl to begin weakening later on July 2 as it passed well south of Hispaniola, falling to Category 4 intensity by 18:00 UTC. Beryl's center passed close to the southern coast of Jamaica late on July 3 and early on July 4. Around 12:00 UTC on the latter date, the cyclone weakened to a Category 2 hurricane southeast of the Cayman Islands. Beryl briefly re-gained major hurricane status early on July 5, but quickly weakened back. At 11:00 UTC, the storm made landfall in Mexico near Tulum, Quintana Roo, as a Category 1 hurricane with winds of 90 mph (150 km/h). Beryl quickly fell to tropical storm status before emerging into the Gulf of Mexico later on July 5. Turning north-northwestward on July 7 due to a mid-latitude trough, the cyclone began re-intensifying significantly as wind shear decreased and moisture increased. Early on July 8, Beryl became a Category 1 hurricane, before making landfall near Matagorda, Texas, at 08:40 UTC with winds of 90 mph (150 km/h). While passing over western Greater Houston, Beryl weakened to a tropical storm at 18:00 UTC and turned northeastward. Around 00:00 UTC on July 9, the cyclone weakened to a tropical depression, approximately 12 hours before becoming extratropical over central Arkansas. The extratropical remnants crossed the Midwestern United States and southern Ontario before being absorbed over western New York by a frontal system on July 11.[35]
On June 29, the prime minister of Saint Lucia ordered a national shutdown in anticipation of Beryl's impacts on the island nation.[63] Caribbean Airlines postponed several flights between Barbados, Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago the next day.[64] A Caribbean Community meeting in Grenada, scheduled to run from July 3 to 5, was canceled.[65] Effects and casualties from the hurricane were widespread. Beryl caused catastrophic damage on Grenada's northern islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique and on several of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' southern islands such as Union Island and Canouan where an estimated 95% of buildings were damaged or destroyed.[66][67] In Venezuela, six people were killed and several were missing.[68] Sustained damage was also recorded in the Yucatán as well, although it was generally limited to downed trees and power lines, and damage to roofs; there was also widespread flooding.[69] In the United States, the state of Texas experienced severe flooding and wind damage, with reports of at least 22 dead in the Greater Houston area.[70][71] Additionally, the outer bands of the hurricane produced a prolific three-day tornado outbreak, with 68 tornadoes confirmed in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, and Ontario.[72][73] A total of 71 fatalities have been confirmed, and preliminary damage estimates are more than US$6.86 billion.[74][75][76] According to Gallagher Re, total losses are estimated at US$7.74 billion as of October 2024.[77]
Tropical Storm Chris
A tropical wave emerged into the Atlantic from Africa's west coast of June 20. Moving generally westward for several days, the wave crossed the Windward Islands on June 25 and then traversed the Caribbean through June 28. By then, the wave slowed and an area of low pressure developed, one day before striking the Yucatán Peninsula. After entering the Bay of Campeche on June 30, the low organized into a tropical depression around 18:00 UTC about 65 mi (105 km) northeast of Veracruz, Veracruz. Warm seas allowed the depression to intensify into Tropical Storm Chris at 00:00 UTC on July 1. However, just three hours later, Chris made landfall in Alto Lucero, Veracruz, with winds of 45 mph (75 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 1,005 mbar (29.7 inHg). The cyclone rapidly weakened and dissipated late on July 1.[36]
Chris generated heavy rains in the states of Chiapas, Hidalgo, Morelos, San Luis Potosí, and Veracruz, causing flooding, overflowing rivers, and mudslides.[78] Consequently, local authorities in Veracruz closed schools in 41 municipalities and opened 9 temporary shelters, which housed 86 people.[79][78] Flooding also damaged numerous homes, including almost 2,000 in Huiloapan alone.[78] In Hidalgo, flooding forced the evacuation of around 200 families in Yahualica. More than 20,000 people were affected by flooding in Xochiatipan, which inundated homes and a clinic. An elderly man in Tlanchinol, Hidalgo, was killed after being buried by a mudslide, while four police officers in Tepetlán, Veracruz, were killed after being swept away by an overflowing stream while surveying storm damage.[36] The state governments of Veracruz and Tamaulipas spent MXN$143.987 million (USD$7.06 million) and MXN$800 million - 1 billion (USD$39.2 - 48.9 million), respectively, on repairing the damage caused by Chris.[80][81]
Hurricane Debby
A tropical wave that exited the west coast of Africa between July 25 and July 26 developed into a tropical depression early on August 3 over the Caribbean about 60 mi (95 km) west of Santa Cruz del Sur, Camagüey Province. Striking Ciénaga de Zapata in Matanzas Province several hours later, the system strengthened into Tropical Storm Debby that day after emerging into the Straits of Florida near Havana. Moving northwestward and then northward due to a western Atlantic subtropical ridge, Debby strengthened into a hurricane early on August 5. Around 11:00 UTC, the cyclone struck near Steinhatchee, Florida, with winds of 80 mph (130 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 979 mbar (28.9 inHg). Debby quickly weakened to a tropical storm and turned northeastward. Upon reaching the Atlantic early on August 7, Debby transitioned into a subtropical storm. After meandering slowly southeastward and then northwestward, the system struck Bulls Bay, South Carolina, with winds of 45 mph (75 km/h). Late on August 8, Debby became extratropical while merging with a front over North Carolina. The remnant low crossed the Eastern United States and parts of Atlantic Canada before being absorbed over the Gulf of St. Lawrence by another frontal system associated with new area of low pressure.[38]
Debby and its precursor produced heavy rains across the Caribbean, especially Cuba and Puerto Rico.[82][83][84] As the storm moved slowly around Florida, precipitation peaked near 20 in (510 mm) near Sarasota. Flooding occurred across the state's west coast and north-central interior, including more than 1,000 structures suffering damage in Sarasota County and another 160 receiving major impacts in Manatee County. Winds in North central Florida downed many trees, some of which struck cars and homes. Parts of some states as far north as Vermont reported flooding and isolated wind damage, with a peak total of 22.02 in (559 mm) of precipitation near Moncks Corner, South Carolina. Approximately 520,000 customers lost electricity in North Carolina alone.[38] Rain also severely impacted Quebec, with Debby causing the heaviest one-day rain in the 380-year history of Montreal and becoming the most costly climate event in Quebec history.[85][86] Overall, 18 fatalities and about $4.25 billion in damage occurred throughout the United States and Canada.[38]
Hurricane Ernesto
On August 7, a tropical wave emerged into the Atlantic from the west coast of Africa. The wave gradually acquired more convection and organized as it moved generally westward over the next several days, developing into a tropical depression roughly 450 mi (725 km) east of Guadeloupe at 12:00 UTC on August 12. The depression continued moving westward due to a large subtropical ridge and intensified into Tropical Storm Ernesto within six hours. Ernesto turned northwestward on August 13 and struck Guadeloupe, Montserrat, and Saint John that day while strengthening under favorable conditions. After passing northeast of Puerto Rico on the next day, Ernesto became a hurricane, although the storm initially struggled to intensify much further due to dry air. A weakness in the subtropical ridge caused the cyclone to turn northward and then northeastward. Early on August 16, Ernesto intensified into a Category 2 hurricane and peaked with winds of 100 mph (155 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 967 mbar (28.6 inHg). However, increasing wind shear weakened Ernesto to a Category 1 hurricane on August 17, before striking Bermuda at 08:30 UTC. The system weakened further weakened to a tropical storm early on the following day, but re-strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane several hours later. Ernesto briefly re-intensified into a Category 2 hurricane on August 19. Accelerating northeastward, Ernesto transitioned into an extratropical cyclone at 12:00 UTC on August 20 about 260 mi (420 km) east-northeast of St. John's, Newfoundland, several hours before opening into a trough.[39]
Several main roads on the island of Guadeloupe were closed due to the storm.[87] Wind gusts on the island of Culebra reached 86 mph (138 km/h),[88] where downed trees blocked roads and roofs were blown off. More than 45,000 customers lost power in the Virgin Islands[89] as a result of hurricane-force wind gusts. The entirety of Saint Croix and Saint Thomas lost electricity.[88] Over 728,000 households in Puerto Rico lost power, around half of the island. An additional 235,000 households suffered water outages.[90] In Bermuda, power outages were recorded as well.[91] In South Carolina, two people died due to rip currents caused by Ernesto.[92] In North Carolina, one person was found dead also due to rough sea conditions caused by Ernesto.[93] In New York City, with swells predicted to reach 6 ft (1.8 m), mayor Eric Adams ordered all beaches in Brooklyn and Queens to close.[94] According to Aon, total losses were estimated to be at US$520 million.[95]
Hurricane Francine
Between August 25 and August 26, a tropical wave emerged into the Atlantic from the west coast of Africa. After crossing the Atlantic and Caribbean for more than a week, deep convection began increasing on September 5 as the wave moved over the Yucatán Peninsula. Emerging into the Bay of Campeche on September 7, the wave interacted with a frontal system and non-tropical low, leading to the formation of a separate low, which developed into Tropical Storm Francine on September 9 about 160 mi (255 km) northeast of Tampico, Tamaulipas. Higher wind gusts in the system were enhanced by a barrier jet near the Sierra Madre Oriental. Francine initially moved northwestward due to a mid-level ridge over Florida, but turned northeastward on September 10 as a short-wave trough crossed the Southeastern United States. The storm strengthened into a hurricane early on September 11. Significant intensification ensued despite increasing wind shear, with Francine peaking as a Category 2 hurricane with winds of 105 mph (165 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 972 mbar (28.7 inHg) as it struck Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, at 22:00 UTC. Rapid weakening then commenced, and at 06:00 UTC on September 12, Francine weakened into a tropical storm and then a tropical depression at 12:00 UTC, six hours before becoming extratropical over Mississippi. The extratropical low dissipated over Arkansas on September 14.[43]
Flooding occurred along much of the Northeast Gulf of Mexico.[96][97][98][99] Oil and natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico was also disrupted.[100] No fatalities were reported as a result of Francine.[101] According to NOAA, losses are at US$1.3 billion as of January 2025.[102]
Tropical Storm Gordon
A tropical wave emerged into the Atlantic from the west coast of Africa on September 9. Heavy rains and gusty winds impacted the Cabo Verde Islands as the wave passed through on the next day.[44] Being in a favorable environment for development,[103] showers and thunderstorms quickly began showing signs of organization in the disturbance, with a tropical depression developed around 12:00 UTC on September 11 approximately 230 mi (370 km) west of the islands. Slow further intensification occurred, with the depression not becoming Tropical Storm Gordon until about 48 hours later.[44] The center of the system remained to the west of its deep convection, and persistent wind shear prevented Gordon from significantly strengthening.[104] Early on September 14, Gordon peaked with winds of 45 mph (75 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 1,004 mbar (29.6 inHg). Gordon weakened back to a tropical depression late on September 15 and dissipated on September 17 about 840 mi (1,350 km) east of the Leeward Islands.[44] The NHC continued to monitor the system for potential redevelopment until September 21, though strong wind shear kept any convection away from the center of circulation.[105]
Hurricane Helene
A Central American gyre developed on September 20 and gradually organized and acquired more deep convection over the next few days while traversing an environment conducive for development.[45][106] By 12:00 UTC on September 24, the disturbance became Tropical Storm Helene roughly 200 mi (320 km) south of Cape San Antonio, Cuba. Continuously favorable conditions allowed the storm to intensify into a hurricane about 24 hours later as it moved northwestward and passed just offshore the Yucatán Peninsula. Helene then accelerated northeastward across the Gulf of Mexico due to a ridge and a deep-layer cut-off low-pressure area situated over the Tennessee Valley while expanding significantly and reaching major hurricane status late on September 26. At 03:10 UTC on the following day, Helene peaked as a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph (220 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 939 mbar (27.7 inHg) as it struck Florida just east of the mouth of the Aucilla River, based on data from a Texas Tech StickNet observation site located about halfway between the landfall point and Perry. Thus, the cyclone became the most intense to make landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida since reliable records began. Helene quickly weakened as it moved quickly inland before degenerating into a post-tropical cyclone over Kentucky while merging with a cut-off low on September 27. The system then stalled over the state before dissipating on September 29.[45]
Helene's precursor and early stages caused flooding in Nicaragua, Honduras, the Cayman Islands,[45] and the Yucatán Peninsula, where high winds left more than 120,000 customers without electricity in Quintana Roo.[107] Storm surge in Florida caused significant damage from the Tampa Bay area northward. Hillsborough and Pinellas counties combined reported the destruction of at least 419 residences, major damage to at least 18,512 structures, and minor to moderate damage to 13,909 others. Several counties in or near the Big Bend suffered extensive wind impacts. Heavy crop and timber losses occurred over southern Georgia, totaling about $5.5 billion. Tens of thousands of homes and buildings suffered wind damage as far north as the Augusta area, while floodwaters entered at least 200 structures and a number of vehicles in the Atlanta area.[45] Catastrophic flooding and more than 2,000 landslides occurred over the southern Appalachian Mountains, especially North Carolina, due to rainfall totals up to 30.78 in (782 mm) in Busick, North Carolina.[45][108] In North Carolina, over 125,000 housing units and approximately 822,000 acres (333,000 ha) of timberland suffered some degree of damage.[45] Thousands of miles of bridges and roads were damaged by floodwaters.[109] At least 106 fatalities occurred in North Carolina, far more than any other state.[45] Helene and its remnants also spawned thirty-nine tornadoes across the United States, one of which killed two people in Wheeler County, Georgia. Flooding also impacted Virginia, West Virginia, and Ohio, leaving 12 homes destroyed and 104 others damaged in Pulaski County, Virginia, alone. More than 7.4 million customers lost electricity across the United States.[45] At least 251 deaths and $78.7 billion in damages have been attributed to Helene, making it the second-deadliest hurricane to strike the continental United States in fifty years, after Katrina in 2005 and the deadliest overall since Maria in 2017,[108] as well as being the seventh costliest hurricane in the United States.[45]
Hurricane Isaac
On September 24, a non-tropical low formed along a frontal boundary over the north Atlantic. The low detached from the frontal boundary and acquired organized convection, transitioning into a tropical storm late on September 25 about 590 mi (955 km) northeast of Bermuda.[46] Operationally, the NHC began issuing advisories early on September 26, naming the storm Isaac.[110] While moving generally eastward, the storm steadily became better organized, and became a Category 1 hurricane on September 27.[111] Isaac continued to strengthen into the next day, as it turned toward the northeast, intensifying to a Category 2 hurricane. It later reached its peak intensity, with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph (165 km/h) and a minimum barometric pressure of 963 mbar (28.44 inHg).[46] Isaac's intensification then leveled off under the influence of increasingly unfavorable sea surface temperatures, wind shear, and dry air,[112] weakening back to a tropical storm late on September 29. Isaac also began an extratropical transition, which it completed early on September 30 approximately 315 mi (505 km) north-northwest of the Azores.[46]
There were no land-based reports of high winds associated with Isaac,[46] though swells from the system reportedly reached Bermuda's coast.[113] In preparation for Isaac's potential approach, the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) put the Azores under a yellow warning.[114] The remnants of Isaac merged with another extratropical low, then brought heavy rain to the Iberian Peninsula.[115]
Tropical Storm Joyce
On September 22, a tropical wave moved off the coast of West Africa. After passing through the Cabo Verde Islands on September 24, thunderstorm activity increased as the wave moved to the west-northwest. The low became condensed and deepened, forming into a tropical depression 06:00 UTC September 27 about 1,170 nautical miles east of the Leeward Islands. Joyce reached its peak intensity at 18:00 UTC with winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 1001 millibars as calculated by a mix of the Knaff-Zehr-Courtney model and Dvorak wind-pressure relationship.[47] By September 28, Joyce began to weaken as southerly wind shear displaced convection away from its center,[116] weakening to a tropical depression the next day.[117] Joyce degenerated into a remnant low by September 30.[118]
Hurricane Kirk
On September 25, a tropical wave crossed the west coast of Africa and entered the Atlantic. After the wave passed through the Cabo Verde Islands on September 27, its associated convection began to organize. By late on September 29, a well-defined circulation formed, indicating that Tropical Depression Twelve developed about 520 mi (835 km) west of the islands. The depression strengthened into Tropical Storm Kirk around 06:00 UTC the next day,[48] nine hours before satellite imagery indicated a partial eyewall.[119] Favorable environmental conditions allowed Kirk to intensify into a hurricane by late on October 1 while it moved west-northwestward.[48][120] Kirk underwent rapid intensification over the following two days, and at 00:00 UTC on October 4, the storm peaked as a Category 4 hurricane with winds of 150 mph (240 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 928 mbar (27.4 inHg).[48] An eyewall replacement cycle, increasing wind shear, and drier air caused Kirk to begin weakening as it turned northward,[121][122] falling to Category 3 status at 06:00 UTC on October 5. The storm then weakened below major hurricane intensity about 24 hours later and then to a Category 1 late on October 6 while heading northeastward. Kirk became extratropical about 475 mi (765 km) west-northwest of the Azores on October 7, but the remnants crossed western Europe before dissipating over western Germany on October 10.[48]
Kirk brought high surf to the East Coast of the United States.[123] Numerous downed trees were reported in Portugal and Spain. Portugal reported over 1,300 incidents. The hardest hit city was Porto, where numerous cars were damaged and railroads were disrupted. At the height of the storm, more than 300,000 households lost power.[124] Strong winds from Kirk severely impacted Portugal's apple production, with over 65% of the crops suffering damage. Losses from this are estimated to be in the "tens of millions of euros" (USD$10.9 million).[125] Strong winds from Kirk also impacted Portugal's chestnut production, with around 40-50% of crops suffering damage. Losses are valued at €20-30 million (USD$20.9-31.3 million).[126] In Spain, 70.1 mm (2.76 in) of rain fell in 12 hours and gusts up to 129 km/h (80 mph) and 205 km/h (127 mph) were reported.[127] In Galicia, mudslides were reported, prompting road closures. Agricultural losses in Spain are estimated to be at €69 million (USD$71.9 million).[128] In France, over 64,000 people lost power, and many roads were closed due to floodwaters. In Sete, a strong swell capsized three boats, killing one person and injuring another.[129] Kirk caused widespread flooding in France with 72–74 mm (2.8–2.9 in) of rain of Noirmoutier and 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain in Paris. Gusts up to 113 km/h (70 mph) and 139 km/h (86 mph) were reported in Villard-de-Lans.[130] As of January 2025, losses are at USD$110 million according to AON.[131]
Hurricane Leslie
On September 29, the NHC began monitoring a tropical wave producing limited shower activity near the coast of West Africa.[132] The next day, a broad area of low pressure formed along wave south of the Cabo Verde Islands amid conditions conducive for additional development.[133] The system became gradually better organized as a broad closed circulation developed on October 2, resulting in the formation of Tropical Depression Thirteen.[49] Late that same day, the system strengthened, becoming Tropical Storm Leslie, while moving slowly to the west within a moderate wind shear environment due to the outflow from Hurricane Kirk to its northwest.[134] On October 5, Leslie intensified and became a Category 1 hurricane, before weakening back to a tropical storm on the morning of October 8.[135][136] Leslie would restrengthen into a hurricane later that night after moving over warmer waters, becoming a Category 2 hurricane early on October 10. At 09:00 UTC the next day, Leslie weakened to a tropical storm as northerly wind shear displaced most of the storm's convective activity to the south of the center, leaving the center exposed.[137] Leslie then turned northeastward and accelerated in front of an approaching trough before becoming extratropical on October 12.[138] After the remnant low merged with another extratropical low, named Irina,[139] that system brought significant flooding to France and Italy.[140]
Hurricane Milton
In mid-September, two African tropical waves and a low-level trough merged over the eastern Atlantic. Although disorganized upon reaching the Lesser Antilles on September 26, the wave began interacting with a CAG over the western Caribbean on September 29. This led to the formation of a low-level trough with two centers over the Gulf of Mexico. One center persisted, resulting in the development of Tropical Depression Fourteen about 155 mi (250 km) east of Tampico, Tamaulipas, at 12:00 UTC on October 5. Strengthening into Tropical Storm Milton within six hours, the cyclone moved slowly eastward to east-southeastward over the next few days along the southern periphery of the mid-latitude westerlies. Milton underwent explosive intensification due to very warm waters and low-to-moderate wind shear, becoming a hurricane around 18:00 UTC on October 6 and then a major hurricane within 18 hours thereafter. At 20:00 UTC on October 7, the system peaked as a Category 5 hurricane with winds of 180 mph (285 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 895 mbar (26.4 inHg).[50]
Early on October 8, the storm weakened to a Category 4 hurricane due to an eyewall replacement cycle; however, upon the cycle's completion, it quickly re-strengthened back to Category 5 intensity while turning northeastward in response to stronger deep-laying southwesterly flow. However, the next day, Milton weakened to a Category 4 hurricane and then to Category 3 intensity late on October 9 because of increasing wind shear. At 00:30 UTC on October 10, Milton struck near Siesta Key, Florida, with 115 mph (185 km/h) winds. Milton weakened over Florida and entered the Atlantic as a Category 1 hurricane, merging with a nearby frontal boundary. Around 18:00 UTC on October 10, it had transitioned into an extratropical low. The extratropical low gradually weakened, passed near Bermuda on October 11, and merged with a frontal zone on October 12.[50]
Yucatán was affected by storm surge and heavy rainfall,[141] but was not directly hit. Campeche and Celestún were flooded and Celestún had to be evacuated as result.[142][143] Overall, Celestún and Sisal were the most affected municipalities in the nation.[144] Western Cuba received flooding and strong winds from Milton.[145][146][147] Milton spawned a large tornado outbreak in Florida.[148] Venice, Florida, experienced sustained winds of 92 miles per hour (148 km/h).[149] The Tampa Bay Times building and Tropicana Field were damaged as a result of Milton.[150][151] The Bahamas saw minor effects from Milton.[152] Forty-five people were killed and the NCEI estimates around USD$34.3 billion in damages as a result of the storm.
Tropical Storm Nadine
On October 15, a broad area of low pressure formed in the southwestern Caribbean Sea east of Central America. The disturbance moved slowly northwestward over the following couple of days, remaining offshore. Then, on October 17 and 18, the low gradually became better defined, and the showers and thunderstorms associated with it become better organized. Consequently, the system was designed Potential Tropical Cyclone Fifteen on the afternoon of October 18. The system quickly developed a closed circulation, and was designated as Tropical Storm Nadine early the next day, while about 185 mi (300 km) east of Belize City. The storm made landfall near Belize City around 16:00 UTC on October 19, at peak intensity, with 60 mph (95 km/h) sustained winds and a minimum pressure of 1,002 mbar (29.6 inHg). Eight hours later, the storm weakened to a tropical depression while over northern Guatemala. Then, early on October 20, the system degenerated into a remnant low while traversing Southern Mexico.[153] Nadine's remnants ultimately entered the Pacific basin, where they facilitated the development of a trough of low pressure in the Gulf of Tehuantepec,[154] which led to the formation of Hurricane Kristy on October 21.[153]
Nadine produced rainfall totals of up to 2 in (51 mm) in Belize.[155] In Quintana Roo, about 3.5 in (90 mm) of rain was recorded, and several houses were flooded in Chetumal. Floods, power outages and uprooted trees were also reported in Campeche, with strong waves stranding about 300 coastal vessels.[156] In Quintana Roo, MXN$11 million (USD$546,000) was spent to repair the damage caused by the storm.[157] In Chiapas, floods damaged 14 houses in Rayón, and 2 in Rincón Chamula San Pedro. A landslide also blocked a section of Federal Highway 190.[158] Heavy rains also damaged 15 houses and caused flooding and landslides in Tacotalpa, Tabasco.[159] There were three deaths in Chiapas as a result of the storm. Two people died inside a house in the municipality of Tila, which was hit during a landslide; and in San Juan Chamula, a man drowned when his vehicle was swept away by flood waters.[160] There were also two fatalities in Veracruz: one after his house was overtaken by a mudslide in Sierra de Zongolica, and another in Santiago Tuxtla as a result of an electrocution; a man also went missing after being swept away by flooding.[161] In Veracruz, MXN$19 million (USD$942,000) was spent to repair the damage caused by the storm.[162]
Hurricane Oscar
On October 10, a tropical wave emerged into the Atlantic from the west coast of Africa. After remaining disorganized for several days due to dry air and moderate wind shear, a circulation began developing as the system passed north of the Lesser Antilles, and early on October 19, Tropical Storm Oscar formed approximately 180 mi (290 km) north of Puerto Rico. In addition to very warm seas and light to moderate wind shear, the cyclone's small size allowed for quick intensification, with Oscar reaching hurricane status by 18:00 UTC. Hurricane-force winds less than 6 mi (10 km) from the center. Late on October 19, Oscar struck Grand Turk Island with winds of 85 mph (140 km/h). The system then turned southwestward due to low- to mid-level ridge over the eastern United States and passed near Inagua in the Bahamas on October 20, shortly before Oscar's barometric pressure fell to 984 mbar (29.1 inHg). At 22:00 UTC, Oscar made landfall in Baracoa, located in the Cuban province of Guantánamo. Oscar quickly weakened to a tropical storm early on October 21 and slowed considerably due to collapsing steering currents, but re-emerged into the Atlantic several hours later. Late on October 22, Oscar degenerated into a trough over the central Bahamas, before soon being absorbed by a non-tropical low.[163]
In the Bahamas, numerous residents had to evacuate after their homes were damaged. In Cuba, 6.5-foot (2.0 m) swells hit Baracoa, damaging walls and roofs of numerous structures.[164] At least eight people died from the storm.[165][166][167] As of January 2025, damages are estimated to be at US$50 million according to AON.[131]
Tropical Storm Patty
On October 31, a storm-force non-tropical low located about 550 mi (890 km) west of the western Azores began producing showers and thunderstorms near its center.[168] It moved to the northeast for around a day, losing its frontal characteristics and upper-level support, weakening in the process. On November 1, despite SSTs around 20 to 22 °C (68 to 72 °F), convection and bands formed around the center due to an unstable environment. The storm had attained hybrid characteristics of a subtropical storm. Upon formation, Patty had winds of 50 mph (80 km/h). Patty continued eastward and organized further, attaining a peak strength of 65 mph (105 km/h) at 12:00 UTC November 2 as estimated by ASCAT-B.[55] The storm then began moving eastsoutheast and began weakening in the mid-latitude flow. On November 3, Patty's forward speed slowed. It also developed fully into a tropical cyclone that day. Patty continued to weaken and opened into a trough by 12:00 UTC November 4.[55]
São Miguel and Santa Maria experienced tropical storm force winds.[55] On São Miguel, there was flooding reported along various roadways and in a few homes. The flooding caused a landslide in the municipality of Ribeira Grande. However, overall damage was minor, with no reports of anyone being displaced by the storm.[55][169][170]
Hurricane Rafael
On October 26, the NHC began monitoring the southwestern Caribbean in anticipation of tropical development.[171] Convection increased markedly in early November in association with a Central American Gyre. However, the presence of a well-defined circulation could not be confirmed until November 4, when Tropical Depression Eighteen formed at 12:00 UTC roughly 205 mi (330 km) southwest of Kingston, Jamaica. The depression continued to strengthen, and became Tropical Storm Rafael six hours later. The storm tracked northwestward along the southwestern side of a ridge over the western Atlantic on November 5, and passed to the west of Jamaica. That afternoon it developed an inner wind core, and strengthened into a hurricane early on November 6. Later that day, at 21:15 UTC, Rafael made landfall just east of Playa Majana, in the Cuban province of Artemisa, with winds of 115 mph (185 km/h). A few hours later, the system entered the Gulf of Mexico, as a weaker Category 2 hurricane. It then proceeded to turn west-northwestward and re-intensify, becoming a major hurricane once again early on November 8 with peak winds of 120 mph (195 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 954 mbar (28.2 inHg). That afternoon, however, the system turned westward and began losing strength and organization, due to increasing westerly wind shear and dry air intrusion. This trend continued, and Rafael was downgraded to a tropical storm early on November 9. Rafael's remaining convection collapsed on November 10, and it degenerated into a remnant low about 230 mi (370 km) southwest of Port Fourchon, Louisiana, before opening up into a trough on the next day.[56]
In Panama, numerous residents had to evacuate their homes after their houses were damaged, leaving a total of more than 210 displaced.[172] In Panama, five people died as a result of the flooding; one death was also reported in Colombia.[173][174] There were two direct storm fatalities in Jamaica. Preliminary damage estimates in Panama are at least USD$110 million.[175] Agricultural losses in Costa Rica totaled to at least ₡500 million (USD$985,000).[176] In Colombia, over 192,000 people were affected by the flooding. The government spent 700 billion pesos (USD$160.8 million) to help those affected by the storm.[177] In Cuba, more than 283,000 people evacuated ahead of the storm, including 98,300 from Havana.[3] Rafael's winds caused an island-wide power-grid failure.[178][179] In western Cuba, 30 cm (12 in) of rain was reported resulting in flooding and landslides.[180] Government officials reported that areas in and around Artemisa sustained the worst damage from Rafael.[181][182] In total, eight fatalities and an estimated US$1.35 billion in damages can be attributed to Rafael.
Tropical Storm Sara
On November 11, a large area of low-pressure merged with a tropical wave south of Hispaniola over the central Caribbean Sea. The system moved generally westward and gradually organized over the next few days. Then, early on November 14, the system developed into Tropical Depression Nineteen about 150 mi (240 km) east of the Honduras-Nicaragua border. Later that day, Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft found maximum sustained winds of around 40 mph (65 km/h), indicating that the depression strengthened into Tropical Storm Sara. The cyclone then made landfall in Honduras near Punt Patuca early on November 15, but soon re-emerged into the Caribbean and strengthened further, peaking with winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 997 mbar (29.4 inHg) around 12:00 UTC. Sara then drifted generally west-northwestward, making landfall in Belize near Dangriga around 14:00 UTC on November 17. The cyclone weakened to a tropical depression about four hours later and dissipated early on November 18 over Campeche. After emerging into the Bay of Campeche, the remnants merged with a frontal system moving across the Southeastern United States within a few days.[183]
The precursor disturbance of Sara caused flooding in the Dominican Republic, resulting in the evacuation of 1,767 people, isolating 54 communities, destroying two homes and damaging 487 more. Two fishermen were left missing and were later found dead near Sabana de la Mar.[184] In Honduras, a man in the department of Yoro drowned.[185] Damage estimates in Honduras are at 2.468 billion lempiras (USD$97.4 million).[186] According to Gallagher Re, as of January 2025, damages for Sara are at USD$100 million.[187]
Other system
On September 11, the NHC noted an area with the potential of tropical cyclone development off the U.S. East Coast.[188] A non-tropical area of low pressure formed on September 14.[189] The following day, an Air Force Hurricane Hunter aircraft found that the system possessed a broad low-level circulation center, and was generating deep convection over and around the center. It also found that the system was in the process of separating from its frontal characteristics. Due to the increasing likelihood of the system gaining tropical characteristics, and its proximity to coastal South Carolina, the NHC designated the system Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight at 21:00 UTC on September 15.[190] A Tropical Storm Warning was issued at that time, extending from Edisto Beach, South Carolina, to Ocracoke Inlet, North Carolina.[191] Schools were closed in preparation for the storm.[192] Eight reached a peak of 60mph and 1004mb just offshore South Carolina. The system did not attain tropical characteristics as it approached northeastern South Carolina the following afternoon, and its sustained winds fell below tropical storm force. Consequently, the Tropical Storm Warnings for the Carolinas were discontinued with the final NHC advisory at 21:00 UTC on September 16.[193] The storm brought heavy rain to the Carolinas, especially at Carolina Beach, North Carolina, where rainfall totals reached 20.81 in (529 mm), and caused significant flooding in Brunswick County, North Carolina,[194][195] where a brief curfew was imposed.[196] In Sunny Point, North Carolina, winds gusted to 77 mph (124 km/h).[197] Two tornadoes touched down during the storm.[198][199] Several coastal roads, such as NC 12, were flooded with high tide.[200] One person died after attempting to drive through floodwaters.[201] According to AON, total losses are estimated to be at $130 million as of January 2025.[131]
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Storm names
Summarize
Perspective
The following list of names was used for named storms that formed in the North Atlantic in 2024.[202] This is the same list used in the 2018 season, with the exceptions of Francine and Milton, which replaced Florence and Michael respectively.[203] Both new names were used for the first (and only, in the case of Milton) time this season, as was Sara, which replaced Sandy after 2012.[57]
Retirement
On April 2, 2025, during the 47th Session of the RA IV Hurricane Committee, the World Meteorological Organization retired the names Beryl, Helene, and Milton from its rotating name lists due to the severity of the damage and number of deaths each of the three storms caused, and they will not be used again in the North Atlantic basin. They were replaced with Brianna, Holly,[nb 3] and Miguel, respectively, which will first appear on the 2030 season list.[204]
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Season effects
Summarize
Perspective
This is a table of all of the storms that formed in the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. It includes their name, duration, peak classification and intensities, areas affected, damage, and death totals. Deaths in parentheses are additional and indirect (an example of an indirect death would be a traffic accident), but were still related to that storm. Damage and deaths include totals while the storm was extratropical, a wave, or a low, and all of the damage figures are in 2024 USD.
| Saffir–Simpson scale | ||||||
| TD | TS | C1 | C2 | C3 | C4 | C5 |
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See also
- Weather of 2024
- Tropical cyclones in 2024
- 2024 Pacific hurricane season
- 2024 Pacific typhoon season
- 2024 North Indian Ocean cyclone season
- South-West Indian Ocean cyclone seasons: 2023–24, 2024–25
- Australian region cyclone seasons: 2023–24, 2024–25
- South Pacific cyclone seasons: 2023–24, 2024–25
- June 2024 South Florida floods (Invest 90L)
- Misinformation about the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season
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Notes
- Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher—1-minute sustained winds higher than 110 miles per hour (178 km/h)—on the Saffir–Simpson scale are described as major hurricanes.[27]
- Patty reached its peak intensity of 65 mph (100 km/h) and 982 mbar as a subtropical storm but later became fully tropical. The peak intensity while fully tropical was 990 mbar.
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References
External links
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