Hurricanes are impressive meteorological phenomena when observed from satellite images. However, on land, their impact can be devastating, causing severe damage and even fatalities.
For the 2023 season, experts predict a total of 20 tropical storms in the Atlantic, of which seven will become hurricanes and three of them will reach higher intensities (category 3 or higher). This season, which officially begins on June 1 and ends on November 30, is expected to be more active than normal due to favorable ocean conditions and the influence of the El Niño phenomenon, which affects the formation of cyclones.
This year, the appearance of hurricanes will be influenced by the ocean warming and the presence of a strong El Niño that could alter weather patterns. Philip J. Klotzbach, a researcher at Colorado State University, anticipated that there is a 70% chance of tropical storm formation this season.
La hurricane season 2023 It is remarkable since has recorded record sea surface temperatures, which has contributed to increased cyclone activity. Below are some factors that have influenced this season:
- La sea temperatureOcean surface temperatures have reached record highs, providing the heat needed for tropical cyclones to form and intensify.
- The El Niño phenomenonAlthough it typically inhibits hurricane formation, in this case, its effects have been counteracted by high sea temperatures.
- NOAA forecastThe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a range of 14 to 21 named storms this year, with conditions that favor greater predictability; you can find more information on this in the NOAA analysis. NOAA on hurricane season.
- human impactClimate change, linked to rising ocean temperatures, has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of hurricanes.
El peak activity The Atlantic hurricane season runs from mid-August to late October, when most hurricanes are expected to occur. According to Klotzbach, Only one hurricane landfall is required for the season to be considered active in a region., highlighting the importance of paying attention to weather warnings.
NOAA has confirmed that, of the 20 storms predicted, storm surge flooding is expected, as well as strong winds that can cause severe damage in coastal regions. This season's projections are based not only on historical data but also on advanced analyses that consider multiple climate variables, similar to studies conducted in previous seasons.
Among the tropical systems that have formed so far, several storms of interest include:
Details of the storms and hurricanes of 2023
- Hurricane Franklin: It formed in late August, affecting the Greater Antilles and the Dominican Republic. It reached Category 4 status before weakening.
- Hurricane Idalia: It made landfall in Florida on August 30 as a Category 3, causing flooding and significant damage in the Big Bend region. Idalia's damage toll is estimated to be between $12,000 and $20,000 million, which is a reflection of the considerable impact of the Atlantic hurricane season.
- Hurricane LeeKnown for its rapid intensification, it reached Category 5 status, impacting Nova Scotia with strong winds and dangerous waves.
- Tropical Storm Ophelia: Affected North Carolina, causing heavy rains and storm surges.
This year highlights storm names like Arlene, Bret, Cindy and others, which have been assigned to systems that have developed throughout the season. Cyclone names are generally assigned by the World Meteorological Organization, and follow an alphabetical pattern alternating between genders, an interesting aspect that you can discover more about in the history of hurricane names.
The impacts of hurricanes on the coasts are considerable; according to Moody's Analytics, the cost of the damage caused by Idalia is estimated between $12,000 and $20,000 millionThese impacts are measured not only in economic terms, but also in terms of human lives and population displacement.
As a preparedness measure, local and international authorities recommend that residents of potentially affected areas follow evacuation guidelines and stay informed about weather updates during hurricane season, as well as use tools such as the hurricane tracker to follow storms in real time.
The mangroves They are one of the most effective natural protections against hurricanes. They help mitigate the impact of storms by absorbing wave energy and reducing coastal erosion. The conservation and restoration of these coastal areas is vital to the resilience of coastal communities, as explained in the article on mangroves as natural protection.
El National Hurricane Center (NHC) plays a crucial role in monitoring and predicting the behavior of these storms. Its ability to provide accurate warnings can mean the difference between life and death during hurricane season.
With the continued rise in global temperatures, we are likely to see an increase in hurricane activity in the coming years. The relationship between climate change and hurricane intensification is the subject of ongoing research, seeking to better understand how these phenomena relate to greenhouse gas emissions.
La modern technology The way these phenomena are monitored and predicted is also improving. New satellites, such as those used in NASA's TROPICS mission, are being deployed to provide more accurate data on hurricane structure and intensity in real time, helping to save lives and improve disaster preparedness.
As this hurricane season progresses, it is essential to take a moment to reflect on the lessons learned and prepare for the future. The global community must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the challenges posed by these powerful natural phenomena, which are becoming more frequent and intense with each passing year.
