NOAA is predicting another above-normal hurricane season for the Atlantic basin. For 2021, meteorologists say we’ll likely see between 13 to 20 named storms, of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes and 3 to 5 could strengthen into major hurricanes with winds of at least 111 mph.
NOAA warns the globe could reenter La Nina later in the hurricane season. Warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, weaker trade winds and an enhanced African monsoon will likely contribute to the active season.
“Although NOAA scientists don’t expect this season to be as busy as last year, it only takes one storm to devastate a community,” said Ben Friedman, acting NOAA administrator. “The forecasters at the National Hurricane Center are well-prepared with significant upgrades to our computer models, emerging observation techniques, and the expertise to deliver the life-saving forecasts that we all depend on during this, and every, hurricane season.”
The Atlantic basin hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.
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