Hurricane Helene leaves a path of devastation and record losses
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was among the most destructive in two decades. There were 18 storms, of which 11 turned into hurricanes, and five reached the highest category.
The Atlantic hurricane season officially ends on 30 November. This year, 18 named storms have been recorded, with 11 developing into hurricanes. Five reached wind speeds over 179 km/h, classifying them as major hurricanes.
NOAA emphasises that, on average, 14 storms occur per season, with seven becoming hurricanes.
Tragic consequences of Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Beryl, which appeared at the end of June and early July, became the earliest fifth-category hurricane in history. Such strong phenomena typically form in August and September. The October hurricane Milton surprised with its rate of intensification, accelerating by 145 km/h within 24 hours.
This year's season was recorded as one of the deadliest. Hurricane Helene, which killed over 200 people, was the most tragic since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Floods caused by Helene inundated North Carolina, and material losses were estimated at 157 billion pounds.
Losses estimated at 157 billion pounds
The year 2024 became the second most costly hurricane season in history, second only to 2017, when Hurricane Harvey caused massive destruction in the southeastern United States.
