Atlantic hurricane season wreaks havoc, causing nearly $200B in damages
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was among the most destructive in two decades. A total of 18 storms were recorded, 11 of which turned into hurricanes, and five reached the highest category.
The Atlantic hurricane season officially ends on November 30. This year, 18 named storms were recorded, 11 of which developed into hurricanes. Five reached wind speeds exceeding 111 mph, classifying them as major hurricanes.
NOAA emphasizes that, on average, 14 storms occur per season, seven of which become hurricanes.
The tragic impact of Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Beryl, which appeared at the turn of June and July, became the earliest Category 5 hurricane in history. Such powerful storms typically form in August and September. The October hurricane Milton surprised with its rapid intensification, increasing by 90 mph within 24 hours.
This year's season was recorded as one of the deadliest. Hurricane Helene, which killed over 200 people, was the most tragic since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Flooding caused by Helene inundated North Carolina, and material losses were estimated at around 200 billion dollars.
Losses are estimated at 200 billion dollars
The year 2024 became the second most costly hurricane season in history, second only to 2017, when Hurricane Harvey caused enormous destruction in the southeastern United States. Material losses this year are estimated at around 200 billion dollars.
