When Does Hurricane Season End?
Tracking the End of Hurricane Season
The official end of the Atlantic hurricane season is November 30th. However, this does not mean that hurricanes cannot occur outside of this time period. In fact, hurricanes have been known to form as early as June 1st and as late as December 31st. Nonetheless, the vast majority of hurricanes occur during the six-month period from June 1st to November 30th.
Factors that determine hurricane season end
There are a number of factors that contribute to the end of hurricane season, including:
- Decreasing sea surface temperatures: As the fall season progresses, the sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean begin to cool down. This decrease in water temperature makes it less likely for hurricanes to form.
- Increasing wind shear: Wind shear is the difference in wind speed and direction between the surface of the ocean and the upper atmosphere. High wind shear can disrupt the formation and development of hurricanes.
- Changes in the jet stream: The jet stream is a narrow band of high-altitude winds that flows from west to east across the globe. During the hurricane season, the jet stream is typically positioned to the north of the Atlantic Ocean. However, as the fall season progresses, the jet stream begins to move southward. This southward shift makes it less likely for hurricanes to form.
Hurricanes After November 30th
While the official end of hurricane season is November 30th, it is important to remember that hurricanes can still occur outside of this time period. In fact, some of the most destructive hurricanes in history have occurred after November 30th. For example, Hurricane Wilma, which devastated South Florida in 2005, made landfall on October 24th.
It is important to remain vigilant and prepared for hurricanes throughout the year. Make sure to have a hurricane preparedness plan in place and stay informed about the latest weather forecasts. For the latest hurricane information, visit the National Hurricane Center website.
Additional Tips for Hurricane Preparedness
In addition to tracking the end of hurricane season, there are a number of other things that you can do to prepare for hurricanes, including:
- Make a hurricane preparedness plan: Your plan should include evacuation routes, a list of emergency contacts, and a plan for what to do if you lose power or water.
- Gather emergency supplies: Your emergency supplies should include food, water, first aid kits, and other essential items.
- Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts: During hurricane season, it is important to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts. You can get weather updates from the National Hurricane Center website, the National Weather Service website, or your local news station.
- Follow the instructions of local officials: If a hurricane is approaching your area, it is important to follow the instructions of local officials. They will provide information on evacuation routes, shelters, and other important safety measures.