Jazmin Li
Hurricane Michael, which made landfall in 2018, was the first major hurricane (Category 3 or higher) to directly impact Georgia since the 1890s. It caused widespread damage across the state, including in Atlanta, and led to power outages, road blockages, and flight disruptions. While there were no expected disruptions at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson airport, Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines warned of potential flight disruptions and cancellations at Atlanta's airport and other airports in the region.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date | 10 October 2018 |
| Category | 5 |
| Location | Florida Panhandle, Panama City Beach, Cape San Blas, Mexico Beach, Tyndall Air Force Base |
| Wind Speed | 115 mph in Donalsonville, 76 mph in Arabi, 74 mph in Albany, 90 mph in Apalachicola, 38 mph in Maryland, 62 mph in Lewes Beach, 54 mph in Atlantic City Airport, 40 mph in Atlanta |
| Impact | Widespread wind damage, tree damage, power outages, severe crop damage, damage to buildings, roads, and power lines, flash flooding, tornadoes |
| Fatalities | 15 (8 in Honduras, 4 in Nicaragua, 3 in El Salvador) |
| Evacuees | 375,000 |
| Flights Cancelled | 80 |
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What You'll Learn
Hurricane Michael's path and the areas it impacted
Hurricane Michael was a powerful and destructive tropical cyclone that hit multiple regions in 2018. It was the first Category 5 hurricane to make landfall in the contiguous United States since Hurricane Andrew in 1992. It was also the third-most intense Atlantic hurricane to make landfall in the contiguous US in terms of pressure.
Michael made landfall along the Florida Panhandle near Panama City on October 10, 2018. It was the first Category 5 hurricane on record to impact the Florida Panhandle and the fourth-strongest landfalling hurricane in the contiguous US in terms of wind speed. The hurricane caused catastrophic storm surges in the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend areas, with the worst damage occurring from Mexico Beach to Indian Pass, where 9 to 14 feet of peak storm surge inundation was observed. The hurricane also caused significant damage to over 2.8 million acres of forested land in Florida, resulting in an estimated $1.29 billion in damage to the timber industry.
As the hurricane moved inland, it impacted Georgia, becoming the first major hurricane (Category 3 or higher) to directly affect the state since the 1890s. In Donalsonville, Georgia, wind gusts peaked at 115 mph (185 km/h), causing significant damage to structures and trees. Tropical storm force wind gusts were also observed in Athens and Atlanta, with sustained winds of 40 mph in the latter. More than 400,000 customers in Georgia lost power, and at least 127 roads were blocked by fallen trees or debris.
Hurricane Michael also caused significant flooding and damage in other regions. In Cuba, over 600 hectares of rice fields were damaged, and at least 694 homes were affected by the hurricane. In Central America, heavy rains and flooding from the hurricane resulted in at least 15 fatalities across Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador. Hundreds of people were forced to evacuate their homes, and more than 260 homes were damaged in Honduras.
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The damage caused by the hurricane
Hurricane Michael caused extensive damage to the areas in its path. The hurricane first made landfall near Mexico Beach on the Florida Panhandle on October 10, 2018, as a Category 4 or 5 storm, with wind speeds of up to 139 mph. It was the first hurricane of its intensity to make landfall in the region.
The storm caused massive destruction, with its heavy rain, high winds, and storm surges spawning numerous tornadoes. There was significant damage to infrastructure, with buckled roads, washed-out foundations, and downed power lines and poles. The storm also caused roofs and trees to fall, with the latter blocking about 100 intersections and causing further damage to homes and businesses. In addition, the failure of 15 pumping stations hampered wastewater management in the affected areas.
Agricultural sectors suffered greatly, with damage to tobacco, rice, cotton, cattle, and peanut crops. The hurricane also caused damage to boats and marinas, with an estimated 400 vessels lost in Gulf and Bay counties.
In Georgia, Hurricane Michael caused widespread wind damage, with gusts of up to 115 mph recorded in Donalsonville. There were also three tornadoes spawned by the hurricane in the state, causing additional damage. More than 400,000 customers were left without power, and at least 127 roads were blocked by fallen trees or debris. The storm also caused severe crop damage, particularly to cotton and pecan crops.
Overall, Hurricane Michael caused an estimated $25 billion in damage in the United States, with Florida being the hardest-hit state. The recovery and rebuilding process in the affected areas is expected to take years.
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The tornadoes spawned by the hurricane
Hurricane Michael was a powerful and destructive tropical cyclone that became the first Category 5 hurricane to make landfall in the contiguous United States since 1992. It was the fourth-strongest landfalling hurricane in the contiguous US in terms of wind speed, with peak winds of 160 mph (260 km/h). As it moved inland, the storm weakened and took a northeastward trajectory toward the Chesapeake Bay, downgrading to a tropical storm over Georgia.
The hurricane caused widespread wind damage and spawned several tornadoes in its outer bands, which caused sporadic damage and led to localized flooding. The National Weather Service issued 12 tornado warnings in Georgia during Hurricane Michael. Three tornadoes touched down in Fort Valley, Roberta, and Perry, with another brief tornado touching down near Atlanta.
One of the most significant tornadoes spawned by Hurricane Michael was a high-end EF-1 tornado that first touched down in Crawford County, Georgia, within its outer rain bands. This tornado snapped and uprooted trees, with estimated maximum winds of 110 mph. Several homes along the road were damaged by falling trees, and a detached workshop at one of the homes was completely destroyed.
Another tornado spawned by Hurricane Michael was an EF-0 tornado that snapped a few pine trees along Carver Drive, just south of Fort Valley State University. A brief tropical cyclone tornado also touched down near downtown Atlanta, snapping several large trees and causing a peak wind of 75-80 mph.
In addition to the tornadoes in Georgia, Hurricane Michael's outer rainbands also spawned at least four waterspouts in Florida, one of which briefly moved ashore in Sarasota County and was classified as an EF0 tornado.
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The impact on flights and airports
Hurricane Michael, which made landfall in 2018, had a significant impact on flights and airports across the United States. The hurricane caused widespread disruptions and cancellations at multiple airports, with the effects felt several days before and after its landfall.
In the lead-up to the hurricane, Southwest Airlines warned of potential disruptions to flights in Atlanta, with impacts expected to last from Monday through Friday. They also offered travel waivers for customers travelling to and from airports in the expected path of the hurricane. Similarly, Delta Air Lines, which has a hub in Atlanta, cancelled approximately 70 flights across Wednesday and Thursday, with expectations of further cancellations. Delta also issued travel waivers for select airports along the coast. JetBlue also joined in, offering travel waivers and waived change and cancellation fees for customers travelling through affected cities.
Panama City Airport officials also urged passengers to check their flight statuses frequently as the hurricane was expected to impact their schedules. At least one Florida airport announced its closure from Wednesday onwards due to the hurricane, with no timeline given for its reopening.
The impact of Hurricane Michael extended beyond just cancellations and disruptions. Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson airport experienced wind gusts of up to 40 mph, though no disruptions were expected. However, the storm caused significant damage to infrastructure and trees in Georgia, with over 400,000 customers left without power and at least 127 roads blocked. This included roads to and from airports, impacting travel to and from the airports.
The hurricane also spawned multiple tornadoes, with one confirmed in Fulton County, Georgia, and three suspected in Fort Valley, Roberta, and Perry. The full extent of the damage caused by these tornadoes is unclear, but they likely contributed to the overall disruption and delays caused by Hurricane Michael.
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The preparations and warnings before the hurricane
Preparing for an incoming hurricane can be a stressful and challenging experience. It is important to be aware of the potential dangers and to take steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Here are some key preparations and warnings to keep in mind before a hurricane:
Tracking the Hurricane
Keep yourself updated on the hurricane's path and intensity by following weather forecasts and updates from official sources, such as the National Weather Service or your local meteorological department. This information will help you understand the potential impact and timeline of the hurricane.
Evacuation and Shelter
Heed evacuation orders and warnings from local authorities. If you are in a low-lying or flood-prone area, be prepared to move to higher ground before floodwaters make movement difficult or impossible. Identify designated shelters or safe locations beforehand, and practice getting to these locations. If you are unable to evacuate, identify a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level to take refuge in during the hurricane.
Supplies and Essentials
Stock up on non-perishable food, water, and any special items for infants, elderly family members, or pets. Ensure you have a hurricane preparedness kit, including a first aid kit, and any necessary medications. Have a way to charge your cell phone, and keep a battery-powered radio with you to stay updated on emergency alerts and news.
Property and Surroundings
Bring in or secure outdoor items that could be picked up by high winds, such as lawn furniture, trash cans, or children's toys. Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside, such as gas grills or propane tanks. If possible, trim or remove trees that could fall on your home, and protect your windows with permanent storm shutters or pre-cut plywood. Be mindful of any potential flood hazards around your property, such as storm drains or low-lying areas, and clear them if safe to do so.
Other Considerations
Be aware of the potential for power outages, water disruptions, and communication interruptions. Learn how to use a generator safely, and plan for any specific needs, such as powered medical equipment. Review your insurance policies to understand your coverage in the event of hurricane damage.
Emotional Preparedness
Hurricanes can be emotionally challenging. It is important to take care of your mental health and that of your loved ones. Eat healthily, get enough sleep, and don't be afraid to seek support or reach out to helplines if you need to talk to someone.
These preparations and warnings are crucial steps to increase your resilience and safety before a hurricane. Staying informed, proactive, and vigilant can help minimize the impact of the storm and protect your well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Hurricane Michael did impact Atlanta Airport, with Delta Airlines cancelling about 70 flights.
Yes, Southwest Airlines warned that flights could be disrupted through Friday, October 12.
Hurricane Michael caused widespread damage in Georgia, including power outages, blocked roads, and crop damage. There were also reports of tornadoes and flooding in some areas.
Yes, Georgia Governor Nathan Deal declared a state of emergency for 92 counties, and colleges and universities in south Georgia closed for a few days. Atlanta Motor Speedway opened its campgrounds for free to evacuees.
Yes, Panama City Airport officials urged passengers to check their flight statuses, and at least one Florida airport announced it would close starting on Wednesday, October 10. Delta Airlines also warned of potential cancellations at its hub in Atlanta, affecting flights worldwide.
