Isaias is in infamous company as an “I” named storm.
The list of names runs alphabetically, so “I” goes to the ninth named storm — which usually forms around the peak of Atlantic hurricane season in mid-September, when conditions are primed to fuel powerful storms. And since 1953, Atlantic storms with “I” names reach Category 3 strength or higher more frequently than any other letter.
Ivan in 2004, Irma in 2017, Ida in 2021 and most recently Ian in 2022 each reached at least Category 4 strength and went on to make landfall in the United States. Ian struck southwestern Florida with 150 mph winds, resulted in 150 deaths and caused over $112 billion in damage, becoming the costliest hurricane in the state’s history.
Storms that are especially deadly or damaging have their name retired from the official list. Thirteen names starting with I have been retired, more than any other letter.
Isaias formed on October 6, weeks later than usual for an “I” storm, thanks to this year’s super El Niño putting a damper on storms in the Atlantic. It’s currently forecast to make landfall on the Gulf Coast as a Category 1 or Category 2 hurricane.