Atlantic hurricanes are powerful storms that form over warm ocean waters in the Atlantic Ocean. They typically develop between June 1 and November 30, a period known as the hurricane season. These storms are characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and can lead to significant coastal flooding and damage. Hurricanes are classified into categories based on their wind speeds, with the Saffir-Simpson scale being the most common. A hurricane begins as a tropical depression, then becomes a tropical storm before reaching hurricane status. The most intense hurricanes can cause widespread destruction, impacting communities and ecosystems along the U.S. East Coast and Gulf of Mexico.