The 2024 hurricane season has been a tumultuous one, with powerful storms wreaking havoc across the southeastern United States. Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, caused widespread destruction in Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky. Following Helene, Hurricane Milton emerged as the fifth most intense storm ever recorded in the Atlantic basin, posing a significant threat to central Florida.
Andrea Thompson, an associate editor at Scientific American who specializes in environmental and earth sciences, sheds light on the evolving nature of hurricanes in the era of climate change. The season started aggressively with Hurricane Beryl, the earliest Category 5 storm on record in the Atlantic Ocean basin, causing significant damage. However, a lull in storm activity in September caught forecasters off guard, possibly due to factors like dry air from the Sahara and shifts in the monsoon pattern.
Thompson emphasizes that the impact of hurricanes goes beyond wind speed, with rainfall and storm surge often causing more damage and loss of life. She notes that as the climate changes, storms are expected to produce more extreme rainfall, leading to increased flooding in regions not traditionally prone to such events. The recent catastrophic flooding in Asheville, North Carolina, serves as a stark reminder that no place is immune to the effects of climate change.
Thompson highlights the need for individuals living inland to stay informed about local weather alerts and evacuation orders, as extreme weather events can have far-reaching consequences. She also discusses a study that revealed the long-term health impacts of tropical cyclones, with deaths linked to these storms extending up to 15 years after the initial event.
As the hurricane season continues until November 30, Thompson cautions that more storms may develop, urging residents in at-risk areas to remain vigilant. While the season may see a few more storms, the likelihood of major hurricanes decreases as ocean temperatures cool. However, the influence of climate change means that unprecedented events like Hurricane Sandy, which struck New York in late October, cannot be ruled out.
The discussion between Rachel Feltman and Andrea Thompson provides valuable insights into the complexities of hurricane forecasting, the impacts of climate change on storm patterns, and the importance of preparedness in vulnerable communities. As the 2024 hurricane season unfolds, it is essential for individuals and authorities to adapt to the evolving nature of extreme weather events and prioritize resilience in the face of future challenges.
