This year there were 19 named systems, and nine of those were tropical storms. Ten were hurricanes, and one, Michael, was a major hurricane.
Though many of the storms curved out to the Atlantic and dissipated or were torn apart by wind shear, three hit the U.S.: Tropical Storm Debby and hurricanes Isaac and Sandy.
Debby hit the Florida Panhandle, Isaac hit the tip of Louisiana, and Sandy hit the northeastern U.S. All three caused major damage, with Isaac creating massive flooding issues for some people in South Mississippi.
According to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, more than 500 homes in four South Mississippi counties received flood damage from Isaac; Jackson, 249; Pearl River, 151; Hancock, 103; Harrison, 16.
MEMA officials also estimate $11 million has been given to state and local governments for their costs associated with the storm.
"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 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." Rupert Lacy, emergency manager in Harrison County, said it's important to be prepared throughout the year for all types of hazards.
"The most important thing is that hurricane season really doesn't follow a calendar," he said. "We see the most intense storms in August and September, but they can happen any time. We have to be prepared for all hazards."
This hurricane season proved busier than officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted. In May, experts had predicted nine to 15 named storms, four to eight hurricanes and one to three major hurricanes.
In August, NOAA officials increased that projection to 17 named storms, five to eight hurricanes, two or three of which would be major. Hurricane Michael was the only major hurricane this year, but Sandy did as much damage as a major storm.
Sandy made landfall Oct. 29 near Atlantic City, N.J. It collided with another weather system, which made the effects even worse.
The storm became the largest Atlantic hurricane on record, with winds spanning more than 1,000 miles.
Sandy was responsible for 209 deaths in seven countries. Officials estimate the losses could surpass $50 billion.
Read more here: http://www.sunherald.com/2012/11/29/4330901/end-of-hurricane-season-is-here.html#storylink=cpy
No comments:
Post a Comment