Highest-on record early season hurricane outlook issued by NOAA

Highest-on record early season hurricane outlook issued by NOAA

La Niña and near record warm ocean temperatures will increase storm activity.

ByMax Golembo and Julia Jacobo

May 23, 2024, 11:17 AM

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has issued its highest-ever early-season hurricane forecast for the upcoming hurricane season.

All categories of storms are expected to exceed the typical number seen every year, National Weather Service forecasters announced Thursday in a news conference for the 2024 hurricane outlook.

NOAA scientists predict between 17 and 25 named storms, compared to an average of 14; between eight and 13 hurricanes, compared to an average of seven; and between four and seven major hurricanes, compared to an average of three.

A major hurricane is Category 3, 4 or 5, with winds of 111 mph or higher.

A resident walks through floodwaters after Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Cristal River, Florida, Aug. 30, 2023.Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Near record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic and a developing La Niña system that will reduce wind shear in the western Atlantic will likely contribute to the increased number of storms.

Trending Reader Picks

Smith suspected added obstruction effort by Trump

May 21, 4:50 PM

Trump deletes clip mentioning 'Unified Reich'

May 21, 9:27 AM

Johnson disappointed with chaotic House meeting

May 17, 3:34 PM

In addition, an above-average African monsoon season will help initiate thunderstorms over Africa that will eventually form into tropical systems in the Atlantic.

The Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. The peak of the season typically occurs around Sept. 10, according to NOAA.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Related Topics