November 2023: Tropical Storm Sara Highlights an Active Hurricane Season
SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) — Tropical Storm Sara has formed in November, showing that the Atlantic hurricane season is still active. It originated in the western Caribbean Sea and hit Honduras, bringing heavy rain. The storm is expected to move across Belize and dissipate over the Yucatan Peninsula.
November has seen two other storms: Tropical Storm Patty, which affected the Azores, and Hurricane Rafael, which impacted Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and Cuba. This year’s November is unusually active, with forecasts predicting more activity until the season officially ends on November 30.
Why does hurricane season typically wind down in November?
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The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Storm activity usually decreases as November approaches due to changing weather conditions. Warm ocean temperatures and less wind shear are needed for storm formation. These conditions diminish in late fall.
How unusual are hurricanes in November?
Based on data from 1991 to 2020, November typically has one tropical storm every one to two years. Hurricanes are rarer, occurring roughly every two years. From 1851 to now, 125 tropical storms formed in November, with half becoming hurricanes and 12 turning into major hurricanes.
Hurricane Rafael recently caused significant damage in Cuba, displacing over 283,000 people and destroying hundreds of homes. It was the first November hurricane since 2022.
What are some notable November storms?
Since 1953, there have been seven November hurricanes severe enough to retire their names. The most recent were Hurricanes Eta and Iota in 2020, both Category 4 storms that caused extensive damage in Nicaragua. Other retired names include Otto, Paloma, Noel, Michelle, and Lenny.
Is climate change extending the threat of hurricanes?
Since 2000, there have been 18 named storms outside the official hurricane season. Climate change may contribute to warmer ocean waters, which can lead to storm formation later in the year. However, the effects of climate change on wind patterns that influence storm activity are still being studied. Scientists debate whether climate change increases the number of storms or enhances their intensity.