Study Links Climate Change to Stronger Hurricanes

Recent studies by Climate Central reveal that climate change has significantly intensified Atlantic hurricanes over the past six years, with 84% of hurricanes from 2019 to 2023 experiencing an average wind speed increase of 18 mph. In 2024, all 11 hurricanes recorded were also strengthened by warmer ocean temperatures, with some storms like Debby and Oscar likely remaining tropical storms without the influence of climate change. The research highlights that 40 hurricanes have escalated by at least one category due to elevated sea-surface temperatures, which rose by 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit. The findings indicate that two Category 5 storms occurred in 2024, which would not have existed without human-caused climate change. Scientists emphasize that while the number of storms may not increase, their intensity and potential for catastrophic damage certainly will. The results underscore the urgent need to address climate change to mitigate future hurricane impacts.