Theta is the 29th named storm in the Atlantic, setting a new record

This is also a record because the number of 28 named storms was broken for the first time. It was set in the infamous and sad 2005 Atlantic hurricane season when hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma, and many others, claimed nearly 4,000 lives and caused over $ 170 billion (2005) in damage.

NOAA forecasted an active 2020 Atlantic hurricane season

This year’s hurricane season in the Atlantic is extremely active, which aligns with the NOAA forecasts. NOOA forecasted, back in August, that we may see 25 named storms. Earlier in May, the NOOA predicted we would have 19 named storms. The Atlantic seems to have decided to break all records this year.

Theta shatters the record from 2005

The subtropical storm Theta was located about 1,400km southwest of the Azores, and wind speeds were approaching those of a Category 1 hurricane. Theta is expected to move eastward towards Portugal and Spain; however, it is not likely to have devastating consequences and will disintegrate long before coming over the soil – either African or European.

Although we live in a time of increasing concern and sensitivity about the impact of people on climate change and the effect of change itself, scientists point out that the mere increase in the number of named storms is not a result or indicator of climate change. However, what climate change is affecting is an increase in the destructive power and strength of hurricanes. Add rising sea levels to that, and floods caused by hurricanes are becoming even more dangerous and with more severe consequences.

Scientists attribute the increased activity to the warmer ocean surface, the pronounced monsoon season in Africa, and weakened wind shear in this particular hurricane season. Weak wind shear means that the atmosphere is less volatile at different altitudes, so there are no huge disturbances in forming storms and hurricanes.

Even though it broke records in the number of hurricanes, this year’s hurricane season is behind the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season’s intensity and damage. Then, we had as many as 8 Category 3 hurricanes, and 3 of them reached Category 5.

Louisiana hit over and over again

Unfortunately, this year also brought 5 named storms that hit Louisiana. Hurricane Laura was one of the strongest hurricanes ever to hit this state. Only six weeks later, Hurricane Delta (a Category 2 hurricane) hit almost the same places as Laura did.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vibor Cipan

With over 15 years of professional work in technology, Vibor Cipan is a recognized leader in this field. His contributions at Microsoft, where he earned the prestigious MVP title, set the stage for his roles as CEO and Co-Founder of UX Passion, and later on, Point Jupiter, a data-informed agency. There, he led teams that shaped services for over 400 million users globally. His work spans UX design and software development, driving significant contributions in both fields.

Currently immersed in the generative AI sector, Cipan is taking part in projects revolutionizing software development and user engagement. His expertise extends into data viz, analytics and Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), where he actively develops proofs of concept and explores AI's role in shaping societal dynamics and national security.

An accomplished author and speaker, Vibor continues to share his insights at international venues, advocating for innovation and a richer understanding of technology's impact on society.

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