The latest forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts there could be a record-breaking number of hurricanes this year.
There have already been nine named storms during this Atlantic hurricane season, which runs June 1 through Nov. 30.
The Climate Prediction Center released its revised report Thursday, predicting a total of 19 to 25 named storms, seven to 11 hurricanes, and three to six major hurricanes. That’s twice the amount in an average season.
They describe it as “one of the most active seasonal forecasts” ever, with the potential to be one of the busiest on record.
Scientists expect storms to be stronger and last longer.
The forecast is based on the presence of warmer surface water, changing trade winds, and a strong African monsoon, which all affect weather patterns. Some of these trends are linked to climate change.
This hurricane season is complicated by the coronavirus pandemic, which could make evacuations complicated. For tips on how to prepare, visitready.nola.gov.
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