Hurricanes in Florida: A Rare November Phenomenon
Florida has experienced three hurricanes making landfall in November since records began: one in 1935, Hurricane Kate in 1985, and Hurricane Nicole in 2022. The warmth of ocean waters has increased the likelihood of hurricane formation, resulting in concerns over future storms, including the potential Hurricane Sara. Historical data indicates that although late-season hurricanes are rare, they can still present significant risks.
Hurricanes are rare occurrences in Florida during November, with only three recorded landfalls since tracking began: an unnamed hurricane in 1935, Hurricane Kate in 1985, and Hurricane Nicole in 2022. Each of these storms had varying impacts, and their significant arrival during this month raises alarm, particularly as the Atlantic hurricane season officially concludes on November 30. Despite the historical coolness of the seas during this time, ocean temperatures remain surprisingly warm, contributing to the potential for tropical development and increased hurricane activity in the region. Currently, the possibility of Hurricane Sara forming poses further concern, with the potential to become the fourth hurricane to strike Florida in a single season—two of which would be classified as major hurricanes. The ongoing warmth of ocean waters defies the typical seasonal cooling process and sustains the possibility for late-season hurricanes, altering the historically established patterns of hurricane occurrence in Florida. The historical record of hurricanes in November highlights the unusual nature of these late-season storms. The three hurricanes to strike Florida in November have included significant events, with Hurricane Nicole causing extensive damages and several fatalities. Preparedness for hurricanes during this time frame is critical, given that the conditions are currently more conducive to tropical storms and hurricanes than usual for the period.
The Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, traditionally peaks in September. However, the phenomenon of hurricanes making landfall in Florida during November is notably rare, with only a handful of cases documented over 173 years. Despite the typical cooling of ocean waters during this late part of the year, recent observations indicate that temperatures remain above average, thus increasing the likelihood of hurricane development even as the season approaches its end.
In summary, while hurricanes are infrequent in Florida during November, the historical record indicates that they can occur, as evidenced by three documented landfalls in recent decades. The current warm sea temperatures further challenge the notion of seasonal norms and heighten the stakes for residents, especially with the potential for Hurricane Sara. Given the altered dynamics in ocean temperatures, vigilance and preparedness for hurricane activity during this late season are paramount.
Original Source: www.heraldtribune.com
