ASHEBORO N.C. (ACME NEWS) – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center anticipates another active Atlantic hurricane season this year, marking the seventh consecutive season with above-average activity.
For the 2022 season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, NOAA forecasts a 65% likelihood of an above-normal hurricane season with a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, including 3 to 6 major hurricanes of category 3 or higher.
NOAA’s outlook predicts overall hurricane activity for the season but does not forecast landfalls.
This hurricane season is expected to be busier than usual because of a few key climate factors. La Niña, which is likely to continue, warmer ocean temperatures, weaker winds in the Atlantic, and a stronger West African monsoon all play a role. The stronger monsoon helps create powerful storm systems that can turn into some of the biggest hurricanes. NOAA scientists are still studying how climate change affects the number and strength of these storms.
“Early preparation and understanding your risk is key to being hurricane resilient and climate-ready,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo in an article on the agencies website anouncing the forecast. “Throughout the hurricane season, NOAA experts will work around-the-clock to provide early and accurate forecasts and warnings that communities in the path of storms can depend on to stay informed.”
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