The National Weather Service is expecting a below-average hurricane season this year, with between eight and 14 named storms, including three to six hurricanes. NOAA Administrator Neil Jacobs says a certain weather pattern is the key factor behind this forecast.
“There’s a 98% chance of El Niño conditions occurring later this season, and an 80% chance that this El Niño will be moderate to strong,” Jacobs said.
National Weather Service Director Ken Graham says history has proven that a below-average season prediction does not reduce the risk of a devastating storm ravaging the coast.
“Betsy was a September storm in 1965, and Louisiana still talks about Betsy. 1992, Andrew was an August storm as well,” Graham noted.
Jacobs says now is the time to start preparing for hurricane season, which starts a week from Monday.
“Be ready, have a plan, listen to your state and local emergency managers. Preparation is essential. You can learn more at ready.gov,” Jacobs explained.
Last year, there were 13 named storms, including five hurricanes. No named storm made landfall in the United States.