Washington, D.C. — The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which ended November 30, was marked by intense activity and devastating impacts. The season recorded 18 named storms, including 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes.
According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, two hurricanes made landfall in the continental U.S., with Hurricane Helene ranking as the deadliest since Katrina. Helene struck the Gulf Coast on September 26 as a Category 4 storm, causing widespread flooding and over 150 fatalities.
Hurricane Milton, another major storm, made landfall on October 9 near Siesta Key, Florida, as a Category 3 storm. It caused 46 tornadoes and torrential flooding, with rainfall totals exceeding 15 inches in some areas.
NOAA credited advancements in forecasting for their ability to track these storms accurately. Experimental tools like improved cone graphics helped alert coastal residents faster. Forecasters emphasized the need for preparedness as hurricane activity increases.
Twelve storms formed before the September peak, with seven hurricanes developing after September 25, setting a new record. Scientists linked intense winds over West Africa to the storm lull before activity surged again.
Officials urge communities to stay vigilant as NOAA continues research to improve storm forecasts.
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