The hurricane season, which began June 1, killed more than 2,000 people in the Caribbean, 150 in the United States, and caused 42 billion dollars in damage in Florida alone, which was hit by four hurricanes in six weeks.

"The 2004 season was one to tell your grandchildren about," said Max Mayfield, head of the Miami-based National Hurricane Center.

In all, 15 tropical storms were powerful enough to be named during the season. Nine of them reached hurricane strength.

"Today, the most traumatic hurricane season in Florida history comes to a welcome end," said Florida Governor Jeb Bush in a televised address.

During six weeks between September and October four hurricanes -- Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne -- ripped through the Caribbean and Florida.

The effects of Jeanne caused at least 2,000 deaths in Haiti and 27 in neighboring Dominican Republic.

Hurricane Ivan ripped through Granada, killing 29 and razing much of the small island.

Hurricanes also caused deaths in Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Cuba and Venezuela.