The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins today, June 1, and runs through November 30, with forecasters predicting a below-normal year that still carries risk for North Texas.
NOAA is forecasting 8 to 14 named storms, 3 to 6 hurricanes, and 1 to 3 major hurricanes, with a 55% chance of below-normal activity driven largely by an expected El Niño pattern that increases wind shear. Colorado State University and other outlets issued similar outlooks calling for slightly below-average activity. While North Texas is far from the coast, tropical systems can bring dangerous flooding, high winds, and tornadoes far inland, as seen with remnants of past storms.
Historically, North Texas has felt significant impacts from tropical systems through heavy rainfall and flooding even when full hurricanes stay on the coast. Storms like the remnants of Hurricane Harvey in 2017 and others have caused widespread flooding in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Experts stress that it only takes one storm to create major problems.
Local emergency officials urge North Texans to prepare now by building an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and batteries; creating a family emergency plan; and knowing evacuation routes if needed. Checking insurance coverage and securing outdoor items are also recommended steps.
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