Florida has only seen three hurricanes make landfall in November since records began: an unnamed storm in 1935, Hurricane Kate in 1985, and Hurricane Nicole in 2022. Typically, ocean temperatures cool significantly during this time, yet recent conditions have remained conducive to hurricane formation. The damages caused by these storms have been substantial, with wide-ranging impacts across affected regions.
Florida has a remarkable history concerning hurricanes, with November presenting a particularly rare occurrence for such storms. To date, only three hurricanes have recorded landfall in Florida during this month: an unnamed hurricane in 1935, Hurricane Kate in 1985, and Hurricane Nicole in 2022. Additionally, the continental United States has seen only five hurricanes make landfall in November over the past 173 years. Usually, the ocean temperatures cool significantly by this time of the year, reducing the fuel necessary for tropical storm formation. However, recent observations indicate that ocean water temperatures remain unusually high even as the hurricane season approaches its official conclusion on November 30. Ryan Truchelut, from WeatherTiger, noted, “Total oceanic heat content of the Gulf has slightly increased in the last three weeks, hovering around mid-October norms; the heat content of the Caribbean remains well above…” The impact of hurricanes is significant, as evidenced by the damage caused by these November storms. Hurricane Nicole, for instance, made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane on November 10, 2022. It inflicted approximately $1 billion in damages across various regions, including Florida. Hurricane Kate, which struck on November 22, 1985, had devastating effects, causing 15 fatalities and over $700 million in damages. Finally, the Yankee hurricane, which reached Florida on November 4, 1935, was responsible for considerable losses, including 19 deaths and roughly $127 million in damages today. Moreover, there have been storms in November that did not impact United States land as hurricanes. These include Hurricane Eta in 2020, which weakened before reaching Florida, and Hurricane Otto, which formed in late November but only crossed through Central America. The Atlantic hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30, yet storms can develop outside of this timeframe. The Florida coastline remains vulnerable, particularly as warmer ocean temperatures increase the likelihood of storms forming later in the season. As the Atlantic continues to display unusual warmth, more storms may emerge, posing potential threats to coastal regions.
Hurricane activity in Florida is closely monitored, especially as the state faces the impact of changing climate conditions and warming oceans. The rate of hurricanes making landfall in November is particularly notable, given that only a few have done so historically. Understanding the pattern and frequency of these storms allows researchers and meteorologists to assess risks, prepare responses, and educate the public about the potential impacts of late-season hurricanes.
In summary, Florida has recorded three hurricanes that have made landfall in November, highlighting the unusual nature of these events. As ocean temperatures continue to rise, the likelihood of hurricanes forming later in the season increases, posing significant risks to the state. History shows that these storms can cause extensive damage and loss of life, underscoring the importance of preparedness and awareness during hurricane season.
Original Source: www.heraldtribune.com
