The frequency and intensity of hurricanes in the North Atlantic have been increasing since the 1980s. They are more destructive than ever before, and the maritime industry is being affected by each new major storm. Hurricanes close ports, damage ships, infrastructure, and equipment, disrupt supply changes, injure or kill workers, and impact maritime jobs.
1900 Hurricane Changed Texas Shipping
Hurricanes are nothing new, but they have become more frequent and stronger in recent years. In 1900, a category 4 storm hit Galveston, Texas, which today has the second oldest continuously operating port in the U.S.
In terms of loss of life, the 1900 hurricane is still the worst natural disaster in U.S. history. It left nearly 20,000 people dead. It also changed the shipping industry in Texas forever. The harbor was in ruins after the storm, which also significantly damaged many ships.
The hurricane and its aftermath pushed lawmakers to create a deepwater channel to Houston, leading to a port that would be further inland and protected from storms. Today, Port Houston is one of the biggest and busiest ports in the U.S.
2024 Hurricanes and Their Impact on the Maritime Industry
2024 has been a big year for hurricanes impacting the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coast. Hurricanes have several impacts on shipping and the maritime industry in general, even before they strike. An incoming storm can cause ports to close, which requires rescheduling ships. Ships at sea often have to change course. Ships on alternate routes burn more fuel, contributing more greenhouse gas emissions.
Hurricane Beryl
Hurricane Beryl struck in June 2024, interfering with the routes of many ships, notably the Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship. Many other ships also had to scatter and increased their emissions by an average of 20%.
Beryl also forced the closure of ports and shipping channels in Texas, which impacted the oil and gas industry. Loss of power contributed to further delays in port and refinery outputs.
Hurricane Helene
Helene made landfall in Florida on September26. The storm intensified quickly and created a wide swath of damage as far away as North Carolina. In Florida, the storm forced the closure of major ports including Port Canaveral and Jacksonville.
In the maritime industry, Helen had a particular impact on the cruise ship industry. It disrupted ships all over the state and at ports. Many ships were delayed in leaving port or were rerouted to new ports. While this often happens during hurricane season, Helene’s impact was especially widespread.
Hurricane Milton
Hurricane Milton hit Florida near Tampa on October 9 after being downgraded to a category 3 storm. It was expected to be much stronger but still left a swath of destruction, including a lot of flooding. Several ports closed in advance of the storm. In addition to ports, the hurricane affected roads and railways, disrupting the global supply chain.
Seaport Manatee, the main deep water port in southwest Florida, suffered significant damage. The state allocated $9.5 million in emergency funding to help it recover. The storm destroyed several warehouses and docks at the port.
Hurricanes have always caused damage, but they are now more destructive than ever. Maritime workers suffer, too, with storms making working conditions even more dangerous and accidents and injuries more likely. Port closures lead to unplanned time off work. As hurricanes continue to increase in intensity, duration, and frequency, the maritime industry will have to adapt.