The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted a below-normal hurricane season for the central Pacific region in 2024, predicting one to four tropical cyclones. Despite this optimistic outlook, Hawaii officials are emphasizing the importance of preparedness among residents.
“It’s important to prepare for that threat this season and not wait for a season where we expect it to be more active,” stated Christopher Brenchley, director of NOAA’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center.
A typical hurricane season in the central Pacific averages four or five cyclones, including tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes. The anticipated decrease in storm activity is attributed to a swift transition from El Nino to La Nina conditions. El Nino is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, affecting global weather patterns. In contrast, La Nina involves cooler Pacific waters, often leading to fewer Pacific hurricanes but more in the Atlantic.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green has proclaimed hurricane preparedness week, urging communities to remain vigilant. Many homes in Hawaii are of single-wall construction, making them particularly vulnerable to strong storms. These structures lack the additional wall that contains insulation, and their foundations are often not properly anchored.
“Even though we have a year where we expect there would be fewer storms on average because of La Nina conditions, if a storm hits the islands, all it really takes is one,” warned Daniel Gilford, a climate scientist with Climate Central.
Climate change contributes to the intensity of storms globally. Warmer sea-surface temperatures provide more energy for hurricanes to grow more powerful. Gilford likened hurricanes to “giant heat engines” that convert warm ocean water into powerful systems.
The central Pacific hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Officials are encouraging residents to assemble emergency kits, secure their homes, and stay informed about weather updates to ensure safety throughout the season.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
