The nation’s top modeler of hurricanes and tropical storms is predicting more disastrous weather than ever before during what has already been a stressful year for many.
Analysts with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Thursday that they expect 19 to 25 named storms with wind speeds greater than 39 mph. The organization included a prediction that seven to 11 of those storms will turn into hurricanes, which would make this year among the most active seasons in U.S. history.
“This year, we expect more, stronger, and longer-lived storms than average, and our predicted ACE range extends well above NOAA’s threshold for an extremely active season,” said Gerry Bell, a seasonal hurricane forecaster with the NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.
NOAA’s *Updated* 2020 Atlantic #HurricaneSeason Outlook now calls for: 19-25 named storms, of which 7-11 could become hurricanes, including 3-6 major hurricanes.
Graphics at https://t.co/mJuHVNZbnG @NWS @NWSCPC #HurricaneOutlook #ItOnlyTakesOne pic.twitter.com/GUNX3vany8
— NOAA (@NOAA) August 6, 2020
Forecasters utilize the Accumulated Cyclone Energy index to gauge the speed and duration of storms emanating from the Caribbean and moving up the East Coast of the United States.
Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross urged people to take measures now to prepare for what could be among the most destructive storm seasons in the history of the country.
“We encourage all Americans to do their part by getting prepared, remaining vigilant and being ready to take action when necessary,” Ross said.
