Several Atlantic Hurricane season forecasts have been updated since they were first issued in the Spring. They all now include an increase in the number of named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes. These increases were based on the Atlantic Ocean’s higher surface temperature, which feeds hurricanes. Earlier in the year, forecasters expected that El Niño might dampen hurricane activity—and it may yet have some effect on the rest of the hurricane season.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has updated its forecast for the 2023 hurricane season for the Atlantic from near-normal to above normal.
In May NOAA forecast a range of 12 to 17 total named storms, 5 to 9 hurricanes and 1 to 4 major hurricanes. In August, NOAA updated those predictions to 14-21 named storms, which have winds of 39 mph or greater, and said that 6-11 could become hurricanes, which means winds of 74 mph or greater. They forecast that 2-5 could become major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or greater.
The University of Arizona updated their forecast in June to 25 names storms, 12 hurricanes and 6 major hurricanes.
Colorado State University’s updated forecast also describes an above normal Atlantic hurricane season with 18 named storms, 9 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes.
Although the season officially ends November 30, hurricanes can occur after that date. September is often a busy month for hurricanes. Preparation is important and many organizations provide information to help you and your policyholders prepare:
Preparing for a Hurricane or Other Tropical Storm (CDC)
What Should You Do During a Hurricane? (Red Cross)
What to Do Before the Tropical Storm or Hurricane (weather.gov)
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