The Atlantic Ocean basin is experiencing unprecedented conditions in 2024, with a severe marine heatwave affecting the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Florida’s coast. Water temperatures have reached the low 90s, placing the Florida Keys and the Bahamas under a bleaching warning due to record-high temperatures that are stressing coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Some areas are 5-8°F above normal.
Nearly the entire tropical Atlantic is experiencing a marine heatwave, raising concerns about the potential for stronger hurricanes. A mere 2°F rise in sea temperatures can increase hurricane wind speeds by over 13%, potentially turning a 140 mph Category 4 hurricane into a 160 mph Category 5, which could triple the damage potential.
With La Niña creating favorable conditions for hurricane development, NOAA has issued its most aggressive hurricane season forecast on record for 2024.
