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Marine Heat Waves Boost Hurricane Damage by 60%

4/11/2026

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Story summary
  • Marine heat waves significantly increase damage from hurricanes and tropical cyclones, per Science Advances.
  • Researchers analyzed 1,600 storms since 1981, finding warmer-water storms are 60% more likely to cause at least $1 billion in damages.
  • Hurricane Otis rapidly intensified to Category 5, causing $16 billion in damage in Mexico.
  • Experts warn that climate change will make marine heat waves more frequent, increasing storm intensification and coastal risks.