Definition and scope of Atlantic hurricanes

Summary

An Atlantic hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone that forms in the Atlantic Ocean, primarily between June and November. It is a continuously rotating storm system around a low-pressure center, producing stormy weather over a wide area (not just the storm’s eye). These hurricanes develop from organized clouds and thunderstorms over tropical or subtropical waters and have a closed low-level circulation. In terms of classification, Atlantic tropical cyclones are categorized by intensity using maximum sustained wind speeds and/or lowest barometric pressure. A tropical storm has one-minute maximum sustained winds of at least 39 mph (34 knots), while a hurricane must reach at least 75 mph (64 knots). The article also notes that the naming of storms began in 1953 using predetermined lists, and names may be retired when storms cause significant damage or casualties. On average in the North Atlantic basin, about 14 named storms occur each season, with roughly 7 becoming hurricanes and about 3 reaching major hurricane strength (Category 3 or higher).

Key Points

• 1

  Atlantic hurricanes are tropical cyclones that form in the Atlantic Ocean, mainly from June to November, with closed low-level circulation around a low-pressure center.

• 2

  Intensity classification uses maximum sustained winds (tropical storm: ≥39 mph; hurricane: ≥75 mph) and/or lowest barometric pressure.

• 3

  Storm naming uses predetermined lists (began in 1953), and names can be retired after particularly damaging or deadly hurricanes.

• 4

  Seasonal expectations in the North Atlantic average about 14 named storms per year, with about 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes (Category 3+).