Cyclones Are Not More Frequent, But Their Intensity Is Increasing

Research shows a rise in the proportion of devastating category 4 and 5 storms, driven by climate change and worsening human vulnerability.

The annual number of tropical cyclones has remained steady at about 47 since 1980, but storms with wind speeds exceeding 250 km/h have increased by nearly 50% over the past decade.
The average maximum wind speed of tropical cyclones rose from 182 km/h (1981-2010) to 192 km/h in the last ten years, a 5% increase linked to climate change.
In 2024, 42 cyclones were recorded globally, with the Pacific west region experiencing the highest number, including 15 typhoons.
The year’s most powerful storm, Hurricane Milton, struck the U.S. in October with peak winds of 278 km/h, causing widespread destruction.
Experts highlight that while climate change intensifies storms, the humanitarian impact is exacerbated by poverty, vulnerability, and inadequate protections for affected populations.