For the first time since 1907, the Atlantic basin has gone through early September without a named storm, snapping a 112‑year‑old record. September 10, traditionally the peak for tropical development, passed without a single system forming, marking the third consecutive Labor Day weekend without a named storm in the Atlantic.
Season outlook
Two leading forecasting centers still expect a modestly active season. The University of North Carolina’s Department of Marine, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, in partnership with the Department of Computer Science, projects six to nine hurricanes out of 12‑15 named storms, with two to three reaching major status. Colorado State University’s Atmospheric Science team offers a similar outlook, forecasting six hurricanes from 13 named storms, with two likely to become major hurricanes.
Recent hurricane history
Last year’s season was notable for the lack of landfalls, a first since 2015. However, Hurricane Erin in August caused significant coastal damage, and Tropical Storm Chantal was the only system to make landfall, striking the Carolinas in July. Earlier in the decade, Hurricane Helene devastated North Carolina, delivering over 30 inches of rain in some mountain areas within hours, killing 108 people in the state and 237 across the South, and inflicting $60‑$80 billion in damage.
Recovery funding and state action
In response to that disaster, the Republican‑controlled General Assembly has moved swiftly. Through five spending packages and the FY 2027 budget plan, lawmakers have appropriated more than $2.8 billion for recovery efforts. Senate Bill 257, signed into law this summer, allocated $700 million specifically for Hurricane Helene relief and added $450 million to the Savings Reserve in the General Fund—often called the rainy‑day fund—raising its balance to over $4.2 billion.
These state actions complement a broader federal effort. In December 2024, Congress approved roughly $9 billion of a $110 billion relief package for North Carolina’s recovery, a measure then signed by President Joe Biden on Dec. 21.
What’s next?
The season continues to run quietly, but forecasters caution that the Atlantic remains capable of producing storms later in the year. Residents of coastal and inland communities are encouraged to stay informed, maintain emergency supplies, and heed any future advisories from the National Weather Service.
North Carolina’s proactive funding strategy, driven by a bipartisan commitment to rebuilding and preparedness, illustrates how effective governance can protect families and uphold the resilience of American neighborhoods.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
