Researchers at Colorado State University have revised their original forecast for the Atlantic hurricane season, instead of slightly below average, now it’s expected to be an above-average season.
Alex DesRosiers, a member of the Hurricane Forecast Team at CSU said record warm sea surface temp prompted the revision.
“We are now expecting 18 named storms, nine hurricanes, four of which could become major hurricanes a category three or higher intensity,” said DesRosiers.
In April CSU predicted 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes for the 2023 season.
Researchers say there’s more uncertainty than usual due to conflicting signals between warmer than normal waters in the Atlantic and a robust El Nino expected for the peak of hurricane season. DeRosiers said the seasonal forecast is a reminder that hurricane season is here, and the height of the season is right around the corner. It’s a reason to prepare not to panic…
“And take the piece of mind into the peak hurricane season knowing that you know where you’re going to evacuate, you have everything that you need if you need to ride a storm out, and you are ready well before the cone ever looks at your community,” said DesRosiers.
DesRosiers said individuals who live in a coastal community should never let their guard down even if a below-average season is predicted. Last year’s predictions for the Atlantic were slightly below normal, but DeRosiers said it certainly didn’t feel that like after Ian to Floridians.
“In any given year it just takes one storm to really threaten your community and put you in danger and potentially need to evacuate,” said DesRosiers.
So far for the 2023 season, there was a subtropical in January and three named tropical storms in June, Arlene, Bret, and Cindy.
