Extreme weather events have been dominating the headlines with increasing frequency, breaking records, and impacting regions that have never experienced such disasters before. Scientists have conducted extensive research that confirms the link between human-induced climate change and the heightened frequency and severity of these disasters. The burning of fossil fuels like oil, gas, and coal releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, leading to the trapping of heat, global warming, and alterations in weather patterns. These changes are occurring at a pace faster than any recorded in the past 800,000 years.
The Climate Prediction Center at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) releases its annual forecast for the hurricane season from June 1 to November 30. The projections for the Atlantic Ocean and the Eastern and Gulf coasts of the United States indicate an increase in the number of hurricanes forming and warmer ocean waters fueling their rapid intensification into more dangerous storms. Climate patterns like El Niño and La Niña in the Pacific Ocean can also influence the hurricane season.
As hurricanes intensify, sea levels rise, exacerbating the risks of flooding from storm surges. An unusual Pacific Ocean hurricane in 2022 caused major flooding in a town 18 miles inland in Alaska due to a powerful storm surge. Hurricanes are also developing stronger wind speeds, undergoing rapid intensification, and becoming wetter, dropping more rain upon landfall. In 2024, 11 hurricanes formed in the Atlantic Ocean, with five strengthening into major storms of Category 3 or higher. Two of these storms, Beryl and Milton, peaked as Category 5 hurricanes, the most severe rating on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
Experts believe that without human-induced climate change, there would have been no Category 5 hurricanes in recent years. Scientists have observed hurricanes and tropical storms moving slowly or stalling over land, resulting in prolonged periods of devastating wind and rain. Hurricane Harvey in 2017 lingered over Texas for nearly four days, causing widespread flooding. Some researchers have suggested that the current hurricane rating system may need an upgrade, as storms exceed Category 5 wind speeds or cause significant damage through rain and storm surge.
In conclusion, the impact of climate change on hurricanes is evident through the increased frequency and intensity of these storms. It is crucial for communities to be prepared for the changing climate conditions and the heightened risks posed by extreme weather events.
