The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a dire warning about the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, predicting between 17 to 25 named tropical cyclones. This is the highest number ever forecasted in May. Experts from various organizations have also predicted a high likelihood of at least 14 named storms, with some predicting over 20.
NOAA’s forecast includes the possibility of eight to 13 hurricanes, with four to seven major hurricanes. These predictions are based on unprecedented conditions including record warm water temperatures in the Atlantic and the potential formation of a La Niña weather pattern. These conditions are expected to provide ample fuel for the formation and intensification of storms.
Experts are particularly concerned about the warm ocean temperatures in the critical area where hurricanes form, as they could lead to rapid intensification of storms. The looming La Niña weather pattern and the subsiding El Niño are expected to further increase confidence in the forecasts for an exceptionally active hurricane season.
The NOAA typically issues an updated forecast in August, but the current conditions have prompted more aggressive predictions for the season. With the Atlantic Ocean already abnormally warm and set to provide additional fuel to any storm, experts are preparing for a potentially devastating hurricane season ahead.
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