The 2020 hurricane season in the Atlantic has been nothing short of record-breaking. As of October 2020, there have been 27 named storms, 10 of which have become hurricanes. This breaks the previous record set in 2005, which saw 28 named storms and 15 hurricanes.
The season started early this year with Tropical Storms Arthur and Bertha forming in May before the official start of the hurricane season on June 1. The peak of the season is from mid-August to late October. This year, the activity during this period has been intense, with the formation of multiple storms at once.
One of the most significant storms this season was Hurricane Laura, which made landfall in Louisiana on August 27 as a Category 4 hurricane. It caused widespread damage and was responsible for at least 77 deaths in the United States. Hurricane Sally, which hit the Gulf Coast in September, also caused significant flooding and damage.
The rapid intensification of storms has been a common theme this season. Rapid intensification occurs when a storm’s winds increase by at least 35 miles per hour in 24 hours. Hurricane Delta, which recently hit the Gulf Coast, underwent rapid intensification and became a Category 4 hurricane in just 36 hours.
While the season has been active, it is not necessarily an indication of climate change. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Atlantic hurricane season is cyclical and is influenced by natural climate patterns such as El Niño and La Niña.
However, researchers have pointed out that climate change could be making hurricanes more intense. Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy for storms to form and strengthen. Additionally, sea-level rise can exacerbate storm surge, which is responsible for much of the damage associated with hurricanes.
Another concern is the impact of hurricanes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Storm evacuations and sheltering are more complicated as officials must consider social distancing and other safety measures. Additionally, the resources required for hurricane relief efforts, such as food and medical supplies, could be stretched thin during the pandemic.
With the hurricane season still ongoing, it is important for those in hurricane-prone areas to stay prepared and informed. This includes having an emergency kit, securing property and following any evacuation orders. As this season has shown, hurricanes can be unpredictable, and it is better to be safe than sorry.
