The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says we need to get ready for a very active hurricane season.
"NOAA scientists predict a quick transition to La Nina conditions, which are conducive to Atlantic hurricane activity," the agency announced today.
That has the forecast for the Atlantic hurricane season from June 1st to November 30th calling for an 85% chance of more activity than normal.
"NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 8 to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 4 to 7 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges."
WWL TV Meteorologist Payton Malone said, "These are the highest numbers they've ever released in their May outlook."
NOAA
Federal forecasters say while La Nina will be one issue, there are others that make them think the season will be unusually active.
"The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity due to a confluence of factors, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation."
