Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters Complete Active 2024 Season
The Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters concluded an active 2024 season, flying 107 missions into 12 Atlantic storms and two Pacific storms, gathering crucial data for forecasts. The season featured significant storms like Hurricane Beryl and Rafael, emphasizing the necessity for preparedness beyond coastal areas. Collaboration with NOAA on reconnaissance missions was essential for accurate forecasting, and the unit is now transitioning to winter operations.
On October 9, 2024, the Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron concluded an active hurricane season that saw them conducting 107 missions into 12 named storms in the Atlantic and two in the Pacific. Col. Elissa D. Granderson led one such mission into Hurricane Milton, gathering critical weather data used for forecasts by the National Hurricane Center. The season was characterized by notable storms, including Hurricane Beryl, the earliest recorded Category 5 hurricane, and Hurricane Rafael, a remarkable Category 3 storm in November.
Lt. Col. Mark Withee described the season as a “roller coaster ride” with strong systems persisting throughout, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for all regions affected by hurricanes, not limited to coastal areas. The squadron’s operations are extensive, governed by a comprehensive National Hurricane Operations Plan which stipulates round-the-clock readiness and the capability to respond to multiple storms within tight timeframes.
Collaborating closely with NOAA’s Aircraft Operations Center, the 53rd WRS utilized their WC-130J Super Hercules aircraft along with NOAA’s WP-3D Orion and Gulfstream GIV-SP aircraft to collect crucial atmospheric data. This year, the unit logged a significant portion of the total reconnaissance hours, reflecting the increasing need for accurate storm modeling forecasts based on data gathered from their missions.
The season began with Tropical Storm Alberto in June, followed by several significant storms, including Hurricane Helene, which brought devastating impacts to the central Appalachians. The operational intensity continued with Hurricane Milton, which intensified rapidly and caused significant landfall impacts. Although the formal hurricane season has concluded, the Hurricane Hunters will transition to support operations for winter storm reconnaissance and atmospheric rivers.
Hurricane reconnaissance missions play a pivotal role in understanding and forecasting tropical cyclones, providing essential data to the National Hurricane Center and enhancing overall storm prediction efforts. The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, commonly referred to as the Hurricane Hunters, employs specialized aircraft to gather atmospheric data critical to modeling and forecasting tornadoes and hurricanes. Each year, the hurricane season presents distinct challenges and variations, necessitating meticulous planning and execution of reconnaissance missions throughout the season.
The 2024 hurricane season highlighted the importance of preparedness and the responsiveness of the Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters, as they executed extensive missions to collect vital weather data amid severe storms. Their collaboration with NOAA exemplifies the integral role of reconnaissance efforts in forecasting and mitigating the effects of tropical cyclones. As the season concludes, the squadron remains prepared to pivot towards winter storm operations, underscoring their continuous commitment to weather monitoring.
Original Source: www.af.mil
