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Atlantic Stays Calm: No Hurricanes by Fall for First Time
23 Sep
Summary
- No Atlantic hurricanes occurred by fall, a first since satellite records began.
- El Niño is the primary reason for the unusually calm hurricane season.
- Emergency services remain prepared despite the current lack of storm activity.
The Atlantic Ocean has experienced an unprecedentedly calm hurricane season this year. As of the first day of fall, no hurricanes have formed, marking a historic first since satellite record-keeping began in the 1960s. Typically, by this time, the season sees around five hurricanes and ten named storms, but this year has only recorded six named storms, none developing into hurricanes.
Meteorologists attribute this anomaly primarily to a powerful El Niño event. While water temperatures in key regions are conducive to storm development, El Niño's atmospheric conditions prevent hurricanes from forming. Despite the current quiet, preparedness remains a priority for organizations like the Canadian Red Cross, which are maintaining stocks and readiness for potential late-season storms. Past hurricane impacts, such as Lee and Fiona, serve as reminders of potential threats, and past events like Hurricane Melissa in late October last year highlight that storms can still emerge.
