Hurricane Helene leaves trail of devastation, $200B in damages
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was one of 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 November 30. This year, 18 named storms have been recorded, with 11 developing into hurricanes. Five reached wind speeds over 111 mph, classifying them as major hurricanes.
NOAA emphasizes that, on average, 14 storms occur per season, with seven becoming hurricanes.
Tragic consequences of hurricane Helene
Hurricane Beryl appeared at the end of June and early July and became the earliest Category 5 hurricane in history. Such strong storms typically form in August and September. The October hurricane Milton surprised with its rate of intensification, accelerating by 90 mph 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 $200 billion.
Losses are estimated at $200 billion
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.
