The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season ended with 18 named storms, including 11 hurricanes and 5 major hurricanes striking the U.S. Major hurricanes in this season resulted in over 250 fatalities and $50 billion in damages. Federal support amounted to $1.6 billion for Texas following declared disasters due to the storms.
The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season has concluded, revealing an exceptionally active year marked by numerous significant storms impacting the United States. In total, 18 named storms emerged in the Atlantic; of these, 11 strengthened into hurricanes, including five major hurricanes. Despite predictions of a slower season, meteorologist Eric Berger noted that the United States experienced a higher-than-average number of impactful hurricanes, particularly highlighting the record of three hurricane landfalls within a single year.
Among these storms was Hurricane Beryl, which struck the Houston region in July, leaving millions without power and resulting in over 40 fatalities. Following Beryl, there was an unusual lull in storm activity during August and early September, which typically sees an uptick in hurricane occurrences. However, activity escalated again as Hurricane Helene struck the East Coast in late September, leading to over 200 casualties across several states, including North Carolina and Virginia. Shortly thereafter, Hurricane Milton intensified to a Category 3 storm and impacted Florida around October 9.
The damage caused by these two significant storms was staggering, with a reported death toll exceeding 250 and an estimated $50 billion in financial losses. Texas, specifically, received approximately $1.6 billion in federal assistance following two Presidential Disaster Declarations related to storm aftermaths, one triggered by severe flooding in May and another due to Hurricane Beryl.
The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 each year and is a crucial period for meteorologists and emergency services due to the potential for extreme weather. 2024 has been an atypical year with an increased number of significant storms affecting the United States, particularly with the severity illustrated by the loss of lives and substantial property damage. Understanding the damages and direct impacts of these hurricanes is pivotal for improving preparedness and response efforts in future seasons. Historical data is critical in informing strategies to combat the hazards posed by hurricanes, especially in vulnerability-prone areas.
The end of the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season illustrates the increasing severity and frequency of hurricanes striking the U.S., with a record number of impactful storms. The unfortunate toll of human lives and financial loss emphasizes the urgent need for effective disaster response and preparedness strategies. The unprecedented events of this season provide important lessons for future hurricane seasons, fostering greater resilience against such natural disasters.
Original Source: www.houstonpublicmedia.org
