The Atlantic hurricane season concludes this November 30, after recording above-average activity with 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher), with Helene being the most destructive, according to NOAA reports.
This period – from June 1 to November 30 – in the year 2024 stands out as one of the most destructive and costly in recent history, with over 375 fatalities and estimated economic losses of 148.29 billion dollars.
Among the most impactful cyclones is Helene, which made landfall in Florida on September 26 as a destructive Category 4 hurricane, causing over 150 deaths and massive damage from the Gulf of Mexico to the mountains of North Carolina.
Beryl also stands out as the earliest-forming category 5 hurricane, while Milton is remembered for its rapid intensification and devastation in western Florida in October.
In the case of Cuba, the island was directly impacted by hurricanes Oscar and Rafael.
Oscar, classified as a Category 1 hurricane, struck the eastern region on October 20, severely impacting Guantánamo, causing significant flooding, isolating communities, and officially reporting eight fatalities.
For its part, Rafael, classified as a Category 3 hurricane, struck the western region on November 6, leaving thousands of homes destroyed, a widespread power outage, and significant losses in agriculture, which inevitably deepens the country’s economic crisis.
As the tropical threat diminishes, a cold front is expected to impact the island, bringing rain and a significant drop in temperatures in the coming days.
NOAA meteorologists had predicted that the 2024 season would be the most active in the last three decades, and the forecast has come true, as an average season typically produces about 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2024 Hurricane Season and Hurricane Helene
How many hurricanes were recorded during the 2024 hurricane season?
During the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, 11 hurricanes were recorded, of which five reached a major category (Category 3 or higher). The activity was significantly higher than the historical average.
What impact did Hurricane Helene have on Florida?
Helene struck Florida as a Category 4 hurricane, causing over 150 deaths and widespread damage from the Gulf of Mexico to the mountains of North Carolina. It was the deadliest hurricane in the United States since Katrina in 2005.
How did hurricanes Oscar and Rafael affect Cuba?
Oscar, a Category 1 hurricane, and Rafael, a Category 3 hurricane, directly impacted Cuba, causing severe flooding, destruction of homes, and significant agricultural losses. These conditions have worsened the economic crisis on the island.
What records were set during the 2024 hurricane season?
The 2024 season broke several records, including Hurricane Beryl as the earliest recorded Category 5 cyclone and Milton, known for its rapid intensification, being one of the most intense hurricanes in the Atlantic.
What were the estimated economic losses during the 2024 hurricane season?
The 2024 hurricane season resulted in estimated economic losses of $148.29 billion, making it one of the most expensive in recent history.
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