The North Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1st and ends on November 30th. It is currently the midpoint in a season which has been notable for its distinct lack of activity. Indeed, 2013 is the first year since 2002 featuring no hurricanes through the month of August.
Two weather systems were elevated to Category 1 hurricanes in quick succession in September – Humberto and Ingrid. However, it is important to point out that the hurricane season is not over yet – Sandy struck the Eastern Seaboard of the United States towards the end of October 2012, causing 148 fatalities and $68 billion of damage.
Over the past decade, 2005 proved the deadliest year for hurricanes when Katrina devastated New Orleans, leading to the deaths of 1,833 people. Observers are hoping the subdued storm activity in 2013 continues until the end of November.
An Unusually Subdued Atlantic Hurricane Season
