Hurricane season officially began on June 1, and already there’s some activity brewing in the Atlantic Ocean. And it makes sense—forecasters from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, as well as Colorado State University, are predicting an above-normal storm season.
NOAA is predicting a 60 percent chance of an above-normal season, a 30 percent chance of a near-normal season, and only a 10 percent chance of a below-normal season. Boaters and residents along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts should know that the forecast calls for between 13 to 19 named storms—ones with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of those, six to 10 are expected to develop into hurricanes, with winds of at least 74 mph. Between three and five are expected to become major hurricanes, with winds of 111 mph or higher.
If you live and boat in an area subjected to hurricanes, take a look at our hurricane preparedness guide to make sure you’re ready should a storm come your way.
