How many hurricanes in 2024 Gulf of Mexico? This question has been on the minds of many as the Atlantic hurricane season approaches. The Gulf of Mexico, being a major basin for hurricane formation, often experiences several tropical storms and hurricanes each year. This article aims to provide an overview of the expected hurricane activity in the Gulf of Mexico for the 2024 season and discuss the factors that may influence the number of hurricanes.
The 2024 hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to be an active one, with several factors contributing to the potential for increased hurricane activity. One of the primary factors is the El Niño phenomenon, which is characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. El Niño tends to suppress hurricane formation in the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico, but this year’s El Niño is expected to be weaker than usual, allowing for a greater likelihood of hurricanes forming in the region.
Another factor that could contribute to a higher number of hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico is the presence of La Niña, which is the opposite of El Niño and characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the same region. La Niña tends to enhance hurricane formation in the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico, and some forecast models suggest that La Niña conditions may develop later in the year.
The 2024 hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico is also expected to be influenced by the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), a long-term climate pattern that affects sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean. When the AMO is in its warm phase, as it is currently, there is a higher likelihood of hurricane formation in the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2024 hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico is predicted to be near or above normal, with an estimated 14 to 20 named storms, including 7 to 11 hurricanes, of which 3 to 6 could be major hurricanes. This would mean that there could be a significant number of hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico this year.
The potential for an active hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico highlights the importance of preparedness and vigilance. Residents and businesses in hurricane-prone areas should ensure they have adequate insurance coverage, develop emergency plans, and stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and warnings. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) will be closely monitoring the conditions in the Gulf of Mexico throughout the season and providing updates and forecasts as needed.
In conclusion, the 2024 hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico is predicted to be an active one, with a higher number of hurricanes compared to recent years. The presence of El Niño, the potential development of La Niña, and the warm phase of the AMO are all contributing factors to this expected increase in hurricane activity. It is crucial for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and prepared for the possibility of hurricanes in the region.
