Weather forecasters at the University of Pennsylvania have predicted a record-breaking hurricane season for 2024, with between 27 and 39 named tropical storms anticipated. This number is significantly higher than the average hurricane season, which usually sees about half that number of storms. The forecast cites high sea surface temperatures in the North Atlantic and an anticipated moderate La Niña weather formation in the Pacific as key factors contributing to the increased storm activity. Professor Michael Mann, who leads the forecast, emphasizes the link between climate trends and weather patterns, stating that the prediction highlights the impact of climate change on hurricanes.
The forecast comes after Colorado State University researchers, generally considered the most reliable forecast, also predicted a rough hurricane season. The CSU forecast calls for 23 named storms in 2024, significantly higher than the average of 14. The CSU forecast warns Americans to ‘anticipate a well above-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the continental United States coastline and in the Caribbean.’
These predictions underscore the importance of preparing for the upcoming hurricane season and highlight the need to address the impacts of climate change on weather patterns.
