Ever wondered how hurricanes get their names like 'Idalia' or 'Franklin'? There's a method to the madness! The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) maintains rotating lists of names used for tropical cyclones worldwide. These lists are alphabetical and alternate between male and female names.
Six lists are used, and each list is recycled every six years, unless a hurricane is so devastating that its name is retired out of respect. Think Katrina or Harvey – those names will never be used again. In that case, the WMO selects a new name to replace it.
So, next time you hear a hurricane warning, remember there's a carefully considered system behind that name – a system designed to provide clear and concise communication during severe weather events, helping to keep us all informed and safe!
