End of the 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season

The 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ends today.  Contrary to early predictions, it was relatively quiet.

There were thirteen named storms this season, which is one above average, but only two developed into hurricanesHumberto and Ingrid.  According to NOAA, that is the least number of hurricanes to form in the Atlantic basin since 1982.  Both storms were also considered very weak. Neither was rated higher than category-1 on the Saffir-Simpson Scale.  On average, the Atlantic produces three major hurricanes, category-3 or higher, every year.

Throughout the season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th, only one named storm made landfall in the U.S.  In early June, Tropical Storm Andrea brought flooding rains and tornadoes to parts of the south, causing one death.

While the exact causes behind this very mild season are being researched, experts say broad areas of high pressure, dry air, and stronger than expected wind shear hindered most tropical development.

Source: NOAA

Source: NOAA