When Does the 2024 Hurricane Season Begin?

The hurricane season is the period in which tropical storms and hurricanes have a high likelihood of forming and causing immense devastation. For instance, on August 24, 1992, Hurricane Andrew caused colossal destruction, ravaging Homestead, Florida, taking 65 lives, and costing $27 billion in affected regions overall.

Mark Your Calendar: 2024 Hurricane Season Start Date

Hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean begins in June because conditions are most favorable for developing tropical storms. The ocean temperature must be warm enough to provide the necessary energy for a storm to form and grow. Additionally, the conditions in the atmosphere must be suitable to allow the storm to develop and maintain its strength. 

In the Atlantic Ocean, the warmest water temperatures and most favorable atmospheric conditions typically occur in the summer and early fall, making this the most active period for hurricane formation.

The hurricane season starts earlier, generally during May, and lasts longer, usually until December, over the eastern Pacific Ocean. This is because the warm water temperatures in the eastern Pacific Ocean occur earlier and last longer, giving more favorable conditions for developing hurricanes. Therefore, the eastern Pacific is generally less active than the Atlantic Ocean, and the number of hurricanes is so low. However, the hurricane season is long. 

This means the hurricane season will always start in May instead of June, like that of the Atlantic Ocean. Generally, since it begins in May up to November, it will always result in much activity with more hurricanes.

Generally, most potent hurricanes occur during the peak period in the hurricane season, which falls between mid-August and late October. Sea surface temperatures are warmest within this period when atmospheric conditions are most favorable for forming severe, intense, and damaging storms. For this reason, this is the time that most coast residents have to be prepared and observative, as the chances of being hit by a hurricane are high.

One of the most important things to understand about the hurricane season is its unpredictability. Although the season typically sets in during June and peaks between August and October, an outsider hurricane can always form outside the period. For instance, Hurricane Alex formed in January 2016, and Hurricane Otto formed in November 2016. These were the exceptions, but they taught us that one must always be prepared and vigilant, no matter the time of the year.

To prepare for the hurricane season, residents of coastal areas should take the following steps:

1. Develop a hurricane plan: This should include identifying a safe place to go during a storm, how to evacuate if necessary, and what to do in case of power outages or other emergencies.
2. Stock up on supplies: This should include non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, necessary medications, and first-aid supplies.
3. Checking insurance coverage is a crucial step in preparing for the hurricane season. Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage for your home and possessions, including flood insurance if you live in a high-risk area. Review your policy to understand what is covered and what is not, and consider making any necessary adjustments to ensure you are fully protected in the event of a hurricane. Prepare your home: This should include securing outdoor items, such as lawn furniture and grilling equipment, and making necessary repairs to windows and doors.
4. Stay informed: Stay up-to-date on the latest weather forecasts and alerts, and have a reliable source of information, such as the National Hurricane Center or your local weather service, to stay informed about the latest developments.

In summary, the hurricane season starts in June in the Atlantic Ocean. It lasts until November, with the peak period occurring from mid-August to late October. However, residents of coastal areas need to be prepared and vigilant at all times, as there is always the possibility of a hurricane forming outside of these periods. By developing a hurricane plan and stocking up on supplies, residents can take control of their safety and well-being during the hurricane season.