2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season: Early Start and Unprecedented Activity
We're currently ahead of the climatological schedule for the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Typically, the first hurricane appears around August 11th, and the first major hurricane around September 1st, with the season peaking on September 10th. However, this year, we've already seen our first hurricane on June 29th and our first major hurricane on June 30th with Hurricane Beryl.
July is traditionally a quieter month in the Atlantic hurricane season, but this pattern may not hold true this year. Colorado State University has updated their predictions, now anticipating an exceptionally active season with 25 named storms, 12 hurricanes, and 6 major hurricanes. The Atlantic remains unusually warm, and a La Niña pattern is emerging, both factors contributing to increased storm activity.
Weathering the Storm: 2024's Billion-Dollar Disasters
As of July 9th, the United States has already experienced 15 weather and climate disaster events, each causing over $1 billion in losses. These include 13 severe storms and 2 winter storms. With an average of 20.4 such events annually over the past five years (2019-2023), 2024 is on track to exceed this average. Notably, Hurricane #Beryl is expected to join this list once all financial data is compiled.
Current Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters in 2024:
- Drought/Heat Wave
- Flooding
- Hurricane
- Severe Weather
- Tornado Outbreak
- Wildfire
- Winter Storm/Cold Wave
Preparing for the Next Wave
With the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) showing increased energy potentially pushing into the Caribbean and Atlantic in early August, there's a high likelihood of more tropical activity soon. It's time to prepare and ensure everything is ready for the upcoming storms.
For now, enjoy this brief lull to get things in order. The next round of storms could hit any time, and being prepared is crucial.
Looking Ahead
Early season storms don't always reflect the entire season's activity. However, strong storms in the Tropical Atlantic and Eastern Caribbean, such as #Beryl, indicate that this year could be particularly intense. Stay informed, stay prepared, and let's weather this storm season together.
