The upcoming hurricane season is set to be one of the most active on record, according to top forecasters from Colorado State University. The university’s April forecast predicts a staggering 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes. This is the highest number of hurricanes ever predicted in an April forecast by the university.
But it’s not just Colorado State University predicting an active season. Other forecast institutions like the UK Met Office and the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts are also foreseeing an above-average Atlantic season, with a total of nine hurricanes expected between April and September.
One factor contributing to this heightened activity is the presence of La Niña conditions, which allow hurricanes to build up more powerful cloud tops. Additionally, the warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures have been shattering records for over a year, further fueling concerns about an active hurricane season.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is set to release their seasonal outlook in May, providing further insight into what to expect in the coming months. However, it’s important to remember that while forecast models can predict the number of storms, they have little influence on where hurricanes will make landfall. This depends on factors like high-pressure ridges and weather patterns.
With the Atlantic region experiencing record warmth, scientists are urging the public to be prepared for the upcoming hurricane season. Regardless of the number of storms predicted, it’s crucial to stay informed and have a plan in place in case of potential landfalls. Stay tuned for updates as we approach the start of the hurricane season.
