Hurricane Season in the Era of Climate Change

July 15, 2022

Hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June 1 through November 30 and normally peaks in August and September.   In 2020 there were more recorded storms (30 named storms) than any previous year and the second-highest number of hurricanes ever recorded, clocking in at 14.  Proving that 2020 was the worst year ever – not only was it the height of the covid pandemic but also a record setting year for hurricanes!!  Fortunately, the 2021 season was less harsh, with 7 hurricanes.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that 2022 will have above normal activity, similar to 2021 but not to the extent of 2020.

Why has the hurricane season seen more activity and storms in recent years??  Climate change.  Hurricanes are fueled in part by moisture linked to warm ocean temperatures. Over the last century, higher amounts of greenhouse gases due to human emissions have raised both land and ocean temperatures. As our climate warms, we’re experiencing stronger winds, higher storm surges and record rainfalls during hurricane season — which is also why these storms are becoming more destructive and costly.

Climate change is real and happening all around us.  Simply open your eyes.  It is up to all of us to push our elected officials to address this reality and if they are not willing to address it, vote them out!  The world needs leaders to address this new reality.