Record-breaking sea surface temperatures since March 2023 are causing concern for the upcoming hurricane season. The area of the Atlantic known as “hurricane alley” is already experiencing summer temperatures, even though it is already February. Researchers say these unprecedented temperatures are increasing the potential for hurricanes to become more violent and destructive.
Record Breaking Sea Temperatures
Average sea surface temperatures around the world have reached record-breaking highs since March 2023 and continue to climb. This alarming warming is due to accelerating global warming and the El Niño climate pattern.
North Atlantic Under Threat
Average sea surface temperatures are now about 68.5 degrees Fahrenheit (20.3 degrees Celsius) across the North Atlantic, a full degree higher than the 1981-2011 average. This includes the Atlantic’s hurricane zone, a belt of hurricane-forming water that stretches from the west coast of Africa to Central America.
Hurricane Season Could Be More Intense
This rise in sea temperatures could lead to more intense Atlantic hurricanes later in the year, when the hurricane season is expected to start on June 1 and end on November 30.
Scientists Warn
Scientists have previously found that climate change is making extremely active Atlantic hurricane seasons much more likely than they were in the 1980s. This is because warmer oceans are making hurricanes stronger and faster growing, if not more frequent.
El Niño Increases the Danger
The current El Niño developed rapidly in July 2023 and is expected to last until June this year. During El Niño, winds in the Atlantic are typically stronger and more stable than usual, which acts as a brake on hurricane formation. But if the climate cycle follows forecasts and diminishes or is replaced by La Niña (its cooler counterpart), it could make for an unusually stormy summer.
Experts Warn the Public
Experts are warning the public about the upcoming hurricane season. It is of utmost importance to be prepared for hurricanes and to obey evacuation orders.
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