Eastern Pacific Sets Record for Cyclone Energy

The eastern and central Pacific has set a record for accumulated cyclone energy, a measure combining storm strength and duration, surpassing the previous mark from 2018. The season’s unusually persistent and powerful storms include a string of major hurricanes, with Hurricane Simon helping push activity to a new high. Scientists say a strong El Niño has weakened and shifted upper-level winds in ways that favor Pacific storms, while unusually warm ocean water and other atmospheric conditions have added fuel; El Niño has also suppressed Atlantic hurricane activity. The season remains active, with forecasters warning that further storms could add to the record.