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HURRICANE HUNTERS

INTO THE HEART OF THE STORM

During the historic 2024 hurricane season, the Air Force Reserve’s Hurricane Hunters flew over 1,100 hours in WC-130J aircraft, tackling 14 storms across the Atlantic and Pacific. Braving powerful systems like Hurricane Beryl—the earliest Cat 5 on record—and Helene, which devastated Florida and the East Coast, these Airmen gathered life-saving data. When Francine threatened their home base, they relocated mid-season. Working with NOAA aircraft, their efforts shaped forecasts and protected communities. The storms may pass, but the Hurricane Hunters’ commitment to saving lives never wavers.

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Case notes
Storm models are great at predicting the path of storms. However, they remain reliant on one crucial element: the data from our aircraft. Lt Col Jeff Mitchell, 53rd WRS Director of Operations
SOURCE: Hurricane Hunters wrap up active 2024 season Opens in new window