New research reveals that climate change is intensifying Atlantic hurricanes, with significant implications for communities along the East Coast and beyond.
A study by Climate Central, published in Environmental Research Climate, found that human-caused global warming added an average of 18 mph to the maximum wind speeds. This happened for more than 80% of Atlantic hurricanes between 2019 and 2023 – and every 2024 hurricane.
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"Hurricanes are changing," said Dr. Daniel Gilford, a climate scientist with Climate Central. "Recent hurricanes were made significantly more intense by human-caused climate change, with peak wind speeds about 18 miles per hour faster on average."
This trend is driven by rising ocean temperatures, which provide fuel for hurricanes to grow stronger and more destructive.
"The ocean temperatures are about two and a half degrees warmer because of human-caused climate change, and this translates directly into stronger hurricanes," Gilford said.
In 2024, two hurricanes reached Category 5 status — storms that would not have intensified to such levels without the warming influence of climate change.
"We’re seeing more violent hurricanes because of a warming climate," said John Morales, an NBC meteorologist and hurricane specialist. "A greater proportion of storms are now becoming Category 3, 4 or 5, and these are the ones causing most of the destruction."
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The phenomenon of rapid intensification, where storms gain strength in a short period, is becoming more common, making these hurricanes harder to predict and more dangerous.
"Rapid intensification cycles are occurring at rates we haven’t seen before," Morales added.
The effects of stronger hurricanes are far-reaching. Increased wind speeds mean greater storm surges, heavier rainfall, and more significant damage to infrastructure.
Dr. Friederike Otto, co-lead of World Weather Attribution, noted that these stronger storms are exacerbating challenges for communities that may not have the resources or experience to cope.
"Even with excellent warnings, communities unfamiliar with such extreme events struggle to respond, often with tragic consequences," Otto said.
As hurricane seasons grow more intense, scientists stress the need for urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
"We’re intensifying hurricanes through our own fault," said Morales. "Addressing the root causes of climate change is essential to mitigating these risks."
With the Atlantic seeing an increasing number of severe storms, the findings of this research emphasize the urgent need for adaptation and preparedness.
"This isn’t just about numbers and wind speeds," Otto said. "It’s about protecting lives, communities, and economies from the escalating impacts of climate change."