Historical hurricanes that made waves in May

This year's first tropical storm in the eastern Pacific is shaping up to be a big one. Amanda reached Category 4 status Sunday, making it the strongest May hurricane ever recorded in that area. Despite its 155 mph winds, Amanda poses little threat to mainland North America.

Here's a look back at some other fearsome storms in May.

1. "Amanda"
   May 24, 1863
   Perhaps the most devastating May hurricane to form before modern naming conventions began in 1950, Amanda killed more than 100 people.


2. Able
   May 15, 1951
   Not to be confused with the 1950's first-named storm, this Able's 115 mph winds make it the strongest May hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic.
   


3. Arlene
   May 28, 1959
   This tropical storm was one of the most costly in the history of May, barreling through nearly every Southeast state and leaving behind $500,000 in damage.


4. Alma
   May 12, 1990
   One of many notable Almas, this one's the earliest hurricane ever formed near the US.


5. Beryl
   May 26, 2012
   Beryl's claim to fame is much bigger than being a rare "B"-named storm in May. It's the strongest pre-season tropical storm to ever make landfall in the United States.
   

Sunday also marked the beginning of National Hurricane Preparedness Week. Check out some of FEMA's tips for staying prepared.