Hurricane Wind Speeds Surge 18 MPH in Five Years, Study Reveals

A study published in Environmental Research: Climate by Climate Central reveals that climate change has significantly intensified Atlantic hurricane wind speeds over the past five years. Warmer sea surface temperatures, linked to human-driven global warming, are the primary culprit, boosting maximum hurricane intensities by an average of 18 miles per hour between 2019 and 2023.

Out of 30 hurricanes analyzed, 84% showed an increase in intensity equivalent to nearly one category higher on the Saffir-Simpson scale. Notable storms affected include Lorenzo (2019), Ian (2022), and Lee (2023), all of which reached Category 5 status due to climate-driven conditions. For 2024, Hurricanes Beryl and Milton also reached Category 5 under similar influences.

The study utilized sea surface temperature attribution science, offering a framework for analyzing how climate change contributes to the intensification of hurricanes worldwide. Dr. Daniel Gilford, lead author and climate scientist, emphasized the urgent need to address the worsening impacts of stronger hurricanes on communities.

Additional findings from a companion report highlighted that every 2024 hurricane experienced wind speed increases of 9-28 MPH, directly linked to elevated sea temperatures caused by carbon pollution. Researchers believe the results can guide future efforts in understanding and mitigating climate-related storm risks globally.