Hurricane Season Update in Florida: A Long and Winding Road to Relief
Two Major Hurricanes in Two Weeks and Two Hundred Miles
Two major hurricanes, spaced by two weeks and two hundred miles, have tested nearly all disaster responses in Florida. Moreover, the patience of residents dealing with a longwinded season is likely reaching a limit, too.
Debris Clean-up and Power Restoration Continue
As debris clean-up and power restoration continues along Florida’s west coast, a necessary pause in the hurricane season has returned to the Atlantic. Two additional development areas are being monitored by the National Hurricane Center, making it hard to know just how long this break will last.
Above-Normal Season but Far from Over
The season has already produced 13 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. Of those storms, five have made landfall in the U.S., with three hitting Florida. While an immediate conclusion of the season might seem appealing, it’s important to note that the 2024 ACE value currently stands at 140.6, not far from the threshold of 159.6 that would place it in the "extremely active" category. To reach this threshold, a few more storms would need to develop, either long-lasting or of high intensity.
Late-Season Storms are Possible
With about seven weeks left in the season, it’s difficult to count out the season that has already produced two Category 5 hurricanes with ebbs and flows of activity since mid-June. While the season’s classification isn’t of importance, ending it quickly is. As South Florida awaits the first cold front of the season on Wednesday, it’s a sign that we’re slowly easing into our Fall. This step forward and increased frequency of fronts may help shut down the hurricane season.
Precautions Still Necessary
While late-season storms can and do happen, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Three examples that come to mind are 2005’s Wilma, 2020’s Eta, and 2022’s Nicole. These systems did not make landfall in South Florida but delivered significant impacts to the NBC6 viewing area after mid-October. For every day that passes, we are getting closer to the end of 2024’s final chapter, even if turning each page feels painfully slow.
Conclusion
As hurricane season continues, it’s crucial to continue preparing for any potential storms and to prioritize individual and community safety. By staying informed and following necessary precautions, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that we are ready to face any challenges that come our way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current ACE value of the 2024 hurricane season?
A: 140.6, which is close to the threshold of 159.6 that would place it in the "extremely active" category.
Q: How many named storms have made landfall in the U.S. this season?
A: Five, with three hitting Florida.
Q: What are some examples of late-season storms that have impacted South Florida?
A: Wilma (2005), Eta (2020), and Nicole (2022) are examples of systems that did not make landfall in South Florida but delivered significant impacts to the region after mid-October.
Q: How long is left in the 2024 hurricane season?
A: About seven weeks.
