The Devastating Impacts of Hurricane Season

As autumn leaves fall and as the air seems to turn crisp — we think of sweaters, hats, and scarves…not exactly raincoats, angry winds, and possible flooding.
According to the National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center, The Atlantic hurricane season begins around the beginning of June and doesn’t end until the end of November. Additionally, there are typically 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major categorical hurricanes within this season. However, according to NOAA, this year’s hurricane is most likely to differ from this standard. For example, instead of the estimated numbers, scientists believe that there might actually be 14-21 named storms, 6 to 10 potential hurricanes, and 3 to 6 major hurricanes.
A specific example of a recent Hurricane is Hurricane Ian, one that swept through and caused massive destruction across Florida. One of the most dangerous effects are actually flooding, something that was exemplified in this past storm. The rise in water levels was estimated to be 12-18 feet, with the lowest levels recorded to be 10 feet. These numbers are incredibly significant and are something that has become increasingly apparent during Hurricane Ian. About 102 deaths by drowning have been reported, though many suspect these numbers to increase rapidly as more of the debris is cleared. Furthermore, this rapid rise in water levels meant evacuation orders. About 2.5 million evacuation orders were given out;, considering many did not follow this — this could have contributed to the high number of deaths, as well as injuries. This also significantly affected many who had to seek shelter elsewhere; many sought refuge on high ground or relied on family and friends who would be less impacted. The situation worsens with the realization that many might not have access to shelters or resources for protecting themselves from the hurricane — further limiting their chances of guaranteed safety and survival.
Another significant factor is the high winds. Cyclones — which are with winds of 74 mph or higher tend to be categorized as Hurricanes; with major hurricanes having at minimum 111 mph and can even reach wind speeds of up to 180 and 200 mph. As for hurricane Ian, it reached a speed of up to 150 mph in certain areas. As a result, this not only caused environmental damages such as tree uprooting, it also caused property damages for many, as well as power outages. Power outages were the case for more than 3.4 million individuals in Florida, making up about 35% of the state. This is a significant issue as this not only postponed their cry for help, but also impacted their safety, access to resources, and contact with their friends and family. Furthermore, all of the destruction caused by the staggering rising water levels as well as rapid winds means high reparation costs.
As a result of these two factors, they could heavily impact the economy which could also impact their recovery. Because of the hurricane, it was noted that many flights to Florida — an area that is known for having many attractions and tourists — were canceled, specifically about 6,000 flights. If not shut down, many airports might have remained operational yet still enacted many delays as well as cancellations as a safety precaution. While this is just one example of how one major industry was impacted within Florida, there are many more ways that Florida’s economy has been affected. In terms of statistics, the total cost in damages as well as economic activity ranges from $65 to $120 billion. However, because Florida has already experienced many hurricanes, the state is known to be very sturdy and can quickly bounce back, especially within these upcoming months as businesses are rebuilt and people are able to go back to before. Even with Florida’s resilience, it is still important to send any aid possible to those who have been gravely affected by this destruction as they try their best to regain a sense of normalcy.

Sources:

https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2022/10/11/hurricane-ian-impacts-and-aftermathhttps://ihsmarkit.com/research-analysis/the-economic-impact-of-hurricane-ian.htmlhttps://

www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2022/10/04/hurricane-ian-statistics-deaths-winds-surge/

https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/weather-atmosphere/hurricanes#:~:text=They%20produce%20strong%20winds%2C%20storm,%2C%20tornadoes%2C%20and%20rip%20currents.