NOAA is forecasting an “active” or “extremely active” hurricane season in its annual Atlantic hurricane season outlook.
In its annual prediction, NOAA says there is a 70 percent likelihood of 13-20 named storms (winds 39 mph or higher), seven to 11 hurricanes (winds 74 mph or higher) and three to six major hurricanes (winds 111 mph or higher).
These projections are above the seasonal average of 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes.
NOAA cites a continuation of the atmospheric climate pattern, warmer than average water temperatures and El Nino not expected to develop as three factors that are expected to contribute to a greater number of storms.
“This year, oceanic and atmospheric conditions in the Atlantic basin are expected to produce more and stronger hurricanes,” said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., lead seasonal hurricane forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “These conditions include weaker wind shear, warmer Atlantic waters and conducive winds patterns coming from Africa."
Hurricane season begins June 1.