When is Hurricane Season In North Carolina? Peak Timing and Earliest Hurricane on Record

Hurricanes seem to be a constant threat during certain times of the year, especially in the southeast. The dreaded hurricane warning often brings chaos as stores sell out of water and shelf-stable items. But being prepared is key when dealing with these enormous storms. And the first step to preparedness is knowing what to expect. When is hurricane season in North Carolina? Discover the answer now, including what areas are most at risk and how often these storms hit.

When is Hurricane Season in North Carolina?

Hurricane season in North Carolina runs from June 1 through November 30 and tends to peak from August to October. While the state doesn’t see as many hurricanes as Florida, it is still one of the most vulnerable states for the Atlantic hurricane season.

The Atlantic Basin includes the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. This basin sees an average of 11 to 14 storms per season, with six to eight typically growing strong enough to be considered a hurricane.

Is North Carolina High Risk For Hurricanes?

North Carolina is highly susceptible to hurricanes, ranking third as the most hurricane-prone state in the country. But what’s interesting is that North Carolina is often in the hurricane’s path even though it does not border the Gulf of Mexico. And every part of the state has been impacted by these strong storms, from the coasts to the mountains.

What Month is the Worst For Hurricanes?

While the North Carolina hurricane season runs from late spring until mid-fall, the state is most vulnerable during August, September, and October. The Atlantic hurricane season, specifically, peaks around mid-September, with 40% of tropical cyclones occurring throughout the month. But North Carolina can experience an early spike due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and its jutting coastline. The state can see a spike as early as June or July.

How Often Do Hurricanes Hit North Carolina?

While North Carolina can get plenty of tropical storms throughout the season, the state averages a hurricane once every three to four years. Over 170 years, the state has been hit by at least 387 tropical cyclones. But only two of those reached category five, the highest classification. However, they did not make landfall. Category five storms feature winds of over 157 miles per hour, with the ability to cause catastrophic damage.

Where Do Hurricanes Normally Hit in North Carolina?

All areas of North Carolina have been impacted by a hurricane in the past. But the coast is the most vulnerable region of the state. North Carolina’s coastline extends into the Atlantic Ocean and consists of low-lying barrier islands. The state is flanked by these islands along most of its length. And it is particularly vulnerable to storm surges, with most areas being hit on both sides.

What Part of North Carolina is the Safest From Hurricanes?

Even though all parts of the state can get hit by hurricanes, the inland regions are typically much safer than the coasts. Hurricanes can travel on land, but they quickly weaken as they can no longer pull heat energy from the ocean. Once a hurricane makes landfall, it often drops to a tropical depression. Charlotte has been nominated as the safest place from hurricanes in North Carolina. The major city is far enough inland that these storms often weaken considerably.

What Was the Biggest Hurricane to Ever Hit North Carolina?

Hurricane Hazel was the worst hurricane in North Carolina’s history. This storm made landfall as a category four hurricane near the North Carolina and South Carolina border. It made contact in the state on October 15, 1954, and left behind destruction from its 150 mph winds. The estimated death toll from Hurricane Hazel was 400 to 1,000, with 19 people from North Carolina. It was the only category four to hit the state. 

What Was the Earliest Hurricane to Ever Hit North Carolina?

Mid-May is the earliest North Carolina has ever been hit by a hurricane, but they have primarily been mild or stayed offshore. The likelihood gradually increases during June and July before reaching peak hurricane season in late summer through early to mid-fall.

How Many Hurricanes Have Hit North Carolina in the Last Ten Years?

People began tracking hurricanes in 1851, so we have data going back over 170 years.

Since 1851, North Carolina has had 413 tropical or subtropical cyclones affect the state, with 12 major hurricanes making a direct hit.

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