Below Normal Atlantic Hurricane Season Likely

 Scientists at NOAA's Climate Prediction Center say that the 2015 Atlantic hurricane season will likely be below normal. However, that doesn't mean that the coastal areas are off the hook, because it only takes one.

The hurricane season officially runs from June 1st through November 30th, and NOAA is predicting a 70 percent likelihood of 6 to 11 named storms; which have winds of 39mph or higher. And, 3 to 6 of those could become hurricanes, which have winds of 74 mph or higher. Anywhere from zero to 2 major hurricanes, which are category 3, 4, or 5; with winds of 111mph or higher. While a below normal season is likely, there is still a 20% chance for a near- normal season, and a 10 percent chance of an above normal season.

 Even if a below-normal season occurs, it only take one hurricane to produce catastrophic impacts communities.

“The main factor expected to suppress the hurricane season this year is El Niño, which is already affecting wind and pressure patterns, and is forecast to last through the hurricane season,” said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., lead seasonal hurricane forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “El Niño may also intensify as the season progresses, and is expected to have its greatest influence during the peak months of the season. We also expect sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic to be close to normal, whereas warmer waters would have supported storm development.”

This week, May 24-30, is National Hurricane Preparedness Week. To help those living in hurricane-prone areas prepare, NOAA offers hurricane preparedness tips, along with video and audio public service announcements at www.hurricanes.gov/prepare.

"It only takes one hurricane or tropical storm making landfall in your community to significantly disrupt your life,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Joseph Nimmich. “Everyone should take action now to prepare themselves and their families for hurricanes and powerful storms. Develop a family communications plan, build an emergency supply kit for your home, and take time to learn evacuation routes for your area. Knowing what to do ahead of time can literally save your life and help you bounce back stronger and faster should disaster strike in your area."

"NOAA will issue an updated outlook for the Atlantic hurricane season in early August, just prior to the historical peak of the season."


For the full report you can check it here.