Atlantic hurricane season: dates, preparation and climate change

Every year, the Atlantic hurricane season brings with it the possibility of devastating storms that affect millions of people in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. But when does this season begin and end? How has it been affected by climate change?

When Does Atlantic Hurricane Season Start and End?

The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins the June 1st and ends the November 30thHowever, this does not mean that storms cannot form outside of this period; it is simply the window of time when weather conditions are most favorable for hurricane formation. During these six months, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean reach warmer temperatures, providing the fuel needed for tropical storms and hurricanes to develop.

Spikes in Hurricane Activity

Although the season lasts from June to November, activity is not evenly distributed. The peak of the season generally occurs between August and Octoberwith the September 10th considered the day with the highest probability of hurricane formation.

This peak is due to a combination of several climatic factors. For a hurricane to form, warm ocean surface temperatures (at least 26°C) and an atmosphere with low wind shear are needed, allowing the storm to organize and strengthen. These factors are usually more common during the late summer and early fall months.

What is a Hurricane and How Are They Classified?

The hurricanes They are tropical cyclones that reach sustained winds of at least 119 km/hThey are classified into five categories, depending on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scalewhich assesses wind intensity and damage potential:

• Category 1: 119-153 km/h
• Category 2: 154-177 km/h
• Category 3: 178-208 km/h (Major Hurricane)
• Category 4: 209-251 km/h (Major Hurricane)
• Category 5: 252 km/h or more (Major Hurricane)

Higher categories can cause massive devastation, as seen with historic hurricanes such as Katrina (2005) or Maria (2017).

Factors that Influence Hurricane Season

The formation of hurricanes depends on several climatic factors, the most important being the sea ​​surface temperature and atmospheric patterns. Here are some of the key elements:

1. The Boy and the Girl

The phenomenon The Child tends to reduce hurricane activity in the Atlantic due to increased wind shear in the upper atmosphere, which disrupts storms. In contrast, The Girl reduces this shear, favoring the formation of more tropical cyclones in the Atlantic basin.

2. Ocean temperatures

Warm waters are the essential fuel for hurricanes. During hurricane season, surface temperatures in the Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. 26°Cproviding the energy needed for tropical storms to intensify and become hurricanes.

3. Climate Change

Climate change is playing an increasingly important role in the intensity and frequency of hurricanes. Warmer ocean and atmospheric temperatures not only increase the energy available to storms, but also allow hurricanes to maintain their strength for longer and even reach regions where they were previously uncommon.

Impact of Climate Change on Hurricane Season

He climate change is altering both the intensity and frequency of hurricanes. While the number of annual tropical cyclones has not changed dramatically, the number of Major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 and 5) has increased. Storms are now more likely to strengthen rapidly and cause devastating damage in coastal areas.

A recent example is Hurricane Dorian (2019), which reached Category 5 status with winds of 295 km/h, devastating the Bahamas. Research has shown that global warming is increasing the ability of storms to transport moisture, which also contributes to more intense rainfall and widespread flooding.

How to Prepare for Hurricane Season?

Proper preparation is key to minimizing the impacts of a hurricane. Here are some essential steps to take to be prepared:

1. Be informed: Follow the updates of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and other reliable weather sources for forecasts and warnings.
2. Emergency Plan: Have a clear evacuation plan and know the shelters available in your area. It is important that all family members know what to do in case of an emergency.
3. Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essential supplies, such as drinking water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and important documents.
4. Home Protection: Install shutters or window guards, secure doors and roofs, and trim trees or branches that could fall on the house during a storm.
5. Home Insurance: Check to see if your insurance covers hurricane damage and consider additional flood insurance, especially if you live in a high-risk area.