NOAA Predicts Record-Breaking Atlantic Hurricane Season with 17-25 Named Storms

In a recent announcement, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued an alarming forecast for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season. The agency predicts an unprecedented 17 to 25 named tropical cyclones, marking the highest May forecast for the Atlantic Ocean in NOAA's history.

Consensus among Experts

NOAA's forecast aligns with numerous other predictions, with experts from universities, private firms, and government agencies also foreseeing a high probability of 14 or more named storms. Many of these projections even anticipate a staggering figure of over 20 named storms for the season.

Potential Impact

NOAA Administrator, Rick Spinrad, emphasized the agency's prediction of eight to 13 named storms potentially escalating into hurricanes, defined by wind speeds of at least 74 miles per hour. Furthermore, the forecast includes a worrisome estimation of four to seven major hurricanes, categorized as at least a Category 3 with wind speeds exceeding 111 m.p.h.

Seasonal Predictions

According to NOAA's assessment, there is an 85% likelihood of an above-normal hurricane season, with a mere 10% chance of a near-normal season, and a minimal 5% chance of a below-normal season. In comparison, an average Atlantic hurricane season typically comprises 14 named storms, including seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.