Understanding the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season: A Detailed Guide
Introduction
The National Hurricane Center predicts the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season to be above-average, with a 65% chance of an above-normal season. With hurricane activity on the rise, it is essential to understand what to expect during this season and how to prepare for it.
What to Expect
Projected Storms
NOAA predicts 14 to 21 named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher, 6 to 10 hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher, and 3 to 6 major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or higher.
Factors Affecting Hurricane Activity
The increased hurricane activity is attributed to several climate factors, including the ongoing La Niña, warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds, and an enhanced west African monsoon.
Impact of El Niño and La Niña on the Atlantic and Pacific Basins
El Niño
El Niño typically favors stronger hurricane activity in the central and eastern Pacific basins and suppresses it in the Atlantic basin. It increases the vertical wind shear and suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity by increasing the amount of sinking motion and atmospheric stability.
La Niña
La Niña suppresses hurricane activity in the central and eastern Pacific basins and enhances it in the Atlantic basin. It reduces the vertical wind shear and increased Atlantic hurricane activity by decreasing the amount of sinking motion and atmospheric stability.
Climate Factors Affecting Atlantic Hurricane Activity
The Atlantic Multi-Decadal Oscillation (AMO)
The warm phase of the AMO is associated with high-activity eras for Atlantic hurricanes, such as the period since 1995. The cold phase of the AMO is associated with low-activity eras.
Preparation for Hurricane Season
Early Preparation
Being hurricane-resilient and climate-ready are essential components of early preparation.
Ready.gov and Listo.gov
Ready.gov and Listo.gov provide preparedness tips for proactive steps to take before a hurricane arrives.
NOAA Enhancements for Hurricane Season
NOAA’s National Hurricane Center
The National Hurricane Center will provide early and accurate forecasts and warnings to communities in the hurricane’s path to stay informed.
FEMA App
FEMA App is an application for downloading emergency alerts in real-time and provides a way for people to receive necessary information during a storm.
Conclusion
The 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season is projected to have above-average activity and will require early preparation and a clear understanding of weather patterns. Understanding the impact of climate factors and the effect of El Niño and La Nina on the Atlantic and Pacific Basins is necessary in assessing the potential hurricanes. Early preparation through Ready.gov, Listo.gov, and downloading the FEMA App can keep people informed in real-time and promote hurricane resilience.
FAQs
Q1. What factors affect hurricane activity during the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season?
A1. The increased hurricane activity is attributed to several climate factors, including the ongoing La Niña, warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds, and an enhanced west African monsoon.
Q2. How many projected storms are expected during the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season?
A2. NOAA predicts 14 to 21 named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher, 6 to 10 hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher, and 3 to 6 major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or higher.
Q3. How does El Niño affect hurricane activity in the Atlantic and Pacific Basins?
A3. El Niño typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity by increasing the vertical wind shear, the amount of sinking motion, and atmospheric stability. It favors stronger hurricane activity in the central and eastern Pacific basins.
Q4. What is the Atlantic Multi-Decadal Oscillation (AMO) and its impact on Atlantic hurricane activity?
A4. The warm phase of the AMO is associated with high-activity eras for Atlantic hurricanes, such as the period since 1995. The cold phase of the AMO is associated with low-activity eras.
Q5. How can people prepare for the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season?
A5. Being hurricane-resilient and climate-ready are essential components of early preparation. Ready.gov and Listo.gov provide preparedness tips for proactive steps to take before a hurricane arrives. Downloading the FEMA App can keep people informed in real-time and promote hurricane resilience.