Missouri, while not an obvious target, does experience the remnants of hurricanes. According to the University of Missouri Climate Center, these remnants reach the state every 2-3 years.
Due to Missouri’s distance from oceans, full-blown hurricanes are rare, occurring with an identity intact about once every 20 years.
When hurricanes or tropical storms do impact Missouri, they bring significant rain and sometimes damage.
For instance, Tropical Storm Cristobal brought 4.5 inches of rain to Springfield in 2020.
Similarly, in 2019, Hurricane Barry affected the eastern part of the state with heavy rainfall.
Missouri’s climate is more commonly influenced by severe weather like tornadoes, ice storms, and floods due to its central location.
These events are frequent enough that Missouri has received over 30 federal disaster declarations since 1990 as noted by SEMA.
Despite the rarity of direct hurricane hits, the impacts of their remnants are a crucial aspect of Missouri’s weather patterns.
Meteorological Dynamics in Missouri
Missouri’s weather is shaped by factors like its specific location, various climate patterns, and its history with different kinds of storms.
These elements also affect the frequency and impact of severe weather events, including tornadoes and hurricanes.
Climate and Seasonal Patterns
Missouri experiences a wide range of temperatures and precipitation levels throughout the year.
In the spring and summer, the state often sees warm and humid conditions due to air masses moving north from the Gulf of Mexico.
Winter brings colder air from the north, leading to significant temperature variations.
Precipitation is common, with the most rain falling in late spring and early summer.
Temperature averages can change significantly between the northern and southern parts of the state, with urban areas like St. Louis being a few degrees warmer due to atmospheric particulates.
Historical Data on Storms and Hurricanes
Missouri has been impacted by the remnants of 44 hurricanes and tropical storms from 1900 to 2011. These weather patterns most often affect southeastern Missouri, though six storms have maintained their tropical storm status upon reaching the state.
The chances of experiencing tropical storm damage are about once every 2-3 years.
The University of Missouri Climate Center notes that it’s unusual, but not rare, for hurricane remnants to travel inland and affect the state.
The first recorded event of this kind occurred on September 10, 1900.
Missouri’s Tornado Alley Connection
Missouri sits in the heart of Tornado Alley, a region in the United States known for frequent and intense tornadoes.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) tracks storm data, showing that Missouri averages about 45 tornadoes annually.
The state’s diverse climate and air masses contribute to this high frequency.
Tornadoes can occur at any time but are most common in spring and early summer.
The combination of warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and cooler, dry air from the north creates the perfect conditions for severe storms and tornadoes.
Impact of Hurricanes and Storm Systems on Missouri
Missouri, although not a coastal state, feels the effects of hurricanes through heavy rains, flooding, and damage from remnants of tropical storms. The state experiences these impacts every few years.
The Aftermath of Hurricanes on Missouri
When hurricanes reach Missouri, they are usually no longer strong winds. Instead, they bring heavy rainfall and potential for flooding.
According to the University of Missouri Climate Center, remnants of hurricanes affect the state around every 2-3 years.
Losses from hurricane-related events can be significant, sometimes exceeding $1 billion.
Hurricane Ike in 2008 is an example. While it weakened before reaching Missouri, it still brought substantial rain and wind, causing localized damage.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) monitors these remnants to provide timely updates to the public.
Flooding and Inland Effects
Flooding is a major concern when hurricanes move inland to Missouri.
Excess water from heavy rains and runoff causes rivers like the Missouri and Mississippi to rise, often reaching flood stages.
Flood warnings are issued frequently by the National Weather Service.
For example, the remnants of Hurricane Beryl raised river levels significantly, prompting alerts.
The state’s infrastructure, such as bridges and roads, often suffers from these flooding events.
Additionally, farmland can be particularly affected, with crops being destroyed or damaged by prolonged water exposure.
These agricultural damages can have lingering economic effects on the region.
Preparation and Response
Preparation for incoming remnants of storms involves multiple state and federal agencies making plans to minimize damage and protect residents.
The National Weather Service and NOAA coordinate closely to forecast potential impacts. These forecasts allow for effective mobilization of resources.
Residents are advised to have emergency kits, follow local advisories, and stay informed through weather updates.
Communities are also encouraged to take part in state-led emergency drills.
During past events, the state activated disaster response teams to deal with emergencies.
Robust preparation helps mitigate the adverse effects of these storm systems on Missouri.