The most recent hurricane name to be officially retired is Ian. This powerful storm made a significant impact when it battered Florida's southwest coast in 2022.
Hurricane Ian: A Name Forever Retired
Hurricane Ian, a destructive Category 4 storm, caused widespread devastation across Florida in September 2022. Its severe impact led to its name being retired by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Hurricane Committee, ensuring that the name "Ian" will not be used again for future Atlantic basin storms.
Here's a snapshot of Hurricane Ian's profound impact, as reported:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 2022 |
| Primary Impact | Florida's southwest coast |
| Fatalities | More than 150 |
| Estimated Damage | Over $112 billion |
| Historical Significance | - Costliest hurricane in Florida history - Third costliest hurricane in U.S. history |
The immense human and economic toll of Hurricane Ian underscores why its name was removed from the rotating list.
Why Hurricane Names Are Retired
Hurricane names are retired when a storm is so deadly or destructive that the future use of its name would be insensitive or confusing. This practice helps to avoid causing distress to those who were impacted by a particularly catastrophic event and prevents confusion when discussing historical weather events.
The World Meteorological Organization's Hurricane Committee is responsible for reviewing hurricane seasons and deciding which names, if any, should be retired. Names are chosen from a pre-determined list, which rotates every six years. When a name is retired, a replacement name is chosen by the committee to take its place on the list for future seasons. This process ensures the naming system remains respectful and clear for meteorological purposes and public communication.
