Active 2012 Hurricane Season Comes To A Close

December 1, 2012

Friday marked the end of the 2012 Atlantic Hurricane season, one that produced 19 named storms, of which 10 became hurricanes and one became a major hurricane.  The number of named storms was well above the average of 12. The number of hurricanes was also above the average of six, but the number of major hurricanes was below the average of three.

Based on the combined number, intensity, and duration of all tropical storms and hurricanes, NOAA classified the season as above-normal.  2012 was an active year, but not exceptionally so as there were 10 busier years in the last three decades.

This season marked the second consecutive year that the mid-Atlantic and Northeast suffered devastating impacts from a named storm. Sandy, and Irene last year, caused fatalities, injuries, and tremendous destruction from coastal storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, and wind. Storms struck many parts of the country this year, including tropical storms Beryl and Debby in Florida, Hurricane Isaac in Louisiana, and Post-tropical Cyclone Sandy in New Jersey.

“This year proved that it’s wrong to think that only major hurricanes can ruin lives and impact local economies,” said Laura Furgione, acting director of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “We are hopeful that after the 2012 hurricane season, more families and businesses all along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts become more “weather ready” by understanding the risks associated with living near the coastline.  Each storm carries a unique set of threats that can be deadly and destructive. Mother Nature reminded us again this year of how important it is to be prepared and vigilant.”

NOAA will release its pre-season outlook for the 2013 hurricane season in May.

Comments

One Response to “Active 2012 Hurricane Season Comes To A Close”

  1. clint on December 1st, 2012 1:36 pm

    Give thanks for another hurricane free year..For my neck of the woods..pollard, al.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News