The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season concludes with a minimum of 335 fatalities in the US

Christine B. Davis, who spent her entire life within 50 miles of the Gulf of Mexico, experienced numerous hurricanes until succumbing to environmental heat exposure after Hurricane Beryl hit Matagorda County in June of her 111th year. At least 335 people died across five hurricanes in 2024, making it the deadliest season since 2005. Davis was one of at least three dozen Texans who died during/after Beryl, which also knocked out power for thousands. Hurricane Helene had the highest death toll of 241, affecting multiple states and leading to severe freshwater flooding and wind-related fatalities. The season highlighted the need to recognize hurricanes as more than just coastal threats, with far-reaching impacts inland. Most victims were older individuals, emphasizing vulnerability to extreme weather events. The Appalachian Mountains experienced devastating flooding and landslides, contributing to high casualty numbers. Scientists have linked the intensity of storms like Helene to climate change-driven ocean warming, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation measures. Efforts to improve flood mapping and evacuation planning have helped reduce storm surge deaths, but challenges remain in understanding evacuation decision-making complexities. As meteorologists and social scientists continue to study these issues, there is a growing focus on addressing the multitude of factors that influence individual responses to extreme weather events.

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