CATASTROPHIC WINDS IN THE WORLD IN 2004

Abstract

The season of tropical cyclones over the Atlantic and western Pacific Ocean was one of the most intensive, and above average in terms of the number of cyclones, and above average over the eastern Pacific. Nine hurricanes developed over the Atlantic Ocean, which claimed more than 3000 lives. Five hurricanes reached the shores of the USA, including the most powerful tropical storm in history, hurrican Ivan. None of the hurricanes above the eastern Pacific reached land. Twenty-one typhoons developed over the western Pacific, claiming 2,250 lives. The most powerful typhoons that reached land were Dianmu, Chaba, Nida, Ma-on and Songda. Seven tropical storms, four of which were typhoons, reached Japan. The number of tornadoes in the USA was above average. At least 46 people died because of them, which is less than the previous year.