A Hurricane Season Outlook: Forecasters Predict Above-Average Activity
What to Expect This Hurricane Season
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released its annual hurricane season outlook, and the forecast is calling for an above-average season. NOAA predicts that there will be 14 to 21 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 6 major hurricanes during the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.
The outlook is based on a number of factors, including current climate conditions and long-term trends. The Atlantic Ocean is currently experiencing a warm phase of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), which is associated with increased hurricane activity. In addition, the tropical Atlantic has been relatively inactive in recent years, which has allowed ocean temperatures to warm. Warmer ocean temperatures provide more fuel for hurricanes to develop.
The above-average forecast is consistent with the predictions of other hurricane experts. The Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project is also forecasting an above-average season, with 19 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. The Weather Company is predicting 18 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes.
Preparing for Hurricane Season
Residents of coastal areas should start preparing for hurricane season now. Here are a few tips:
Create an emergency plan.
- Decide where you will go if you need to evacuate.
- Identify multiple evacuation routes.
- Make sure you have a way to contact family and friends in case of an emergency.
Gather supplies.
- Stock up on non-perishable food and water.
- Purchase a battery-powered radio and flashlights.
- Have a first-aid kit and other medical supplies on hand.
Secure your home.
- Board up windows and doors.
- Secure loose outdoor items.
- Bring in outdoor furniture and plants.
Stay informed.
- Monitor weather forecasts and hurricane advisories.
- Follow your local emergency management office on social media.
- Sign up for text alerts from your local government.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you and your family are prepared for hurricane season.
Hurricane Season Safety Tips
If you are in the path of a hurricane, there are a few things you can do to stay safe:
Evacuate if ordered to do so.
- Do not wait until the last minute to evacuate.
- Follow the evacuation routes that have been designated by your local authorities.
- Be prepared to spend several days away from home.
Stay indoors if you do not need to evacuate.
- Board up windows and doors.
- Secure loose outdoor items.
- Bring in outdoor furniture and plants.
If you lose power, turn off all appliances and electronics.
- This will help prevent damage when the power comes back on.
- Do not use candles or open flames for lighting.
Stay informed about the hurricane.
- Monitor weather forecasts and hurricane advisories.
- Follow your local emergency management office on social media.
- Sign up for text alerts from your local government.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you and your family stay safe during hurricane season.
