La Niña is often associated with a more active Atlantic hurricane season.

La Niña is often associated with a more active Atlantic hurricane season.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (A)

During La Niña, the atmospheric setup often lowers vertical wind shear over the Atlantic. Less shear lets tropical disturbances organize more easily and intensify into tropical storms and hurricanes. Because wind shear is a major factor controlling hurricane development, this creates a more favorable environment for Atlantic hurricanes, so seasons tend to be more active on average. It’s still possible for a La Niña year to be quieter due to other factors, but the general trend is toward increased activity.

During La Niña, the atmospheric setup often lowers vertical wind shear over the Atlantic. Less shear lets tropical disturbances organize more easily and intensify into tropical storms and hurricanes. Because wind shear is a major factor controlling hurricane development, this creates a more favorable environment for Atlantic hurricanes, so seasons tend to be more active on average. It’s still possible for a La Niña year to be quieter due to other factors, but the general trend is toward increased activity.