The Atlantic hurricane season officially starts in 11 days, and it will be a busy one if this year's predictions are accurate. Federal forecasters announced yesterday that they expect three-to-six major hurricanes during what they say should be an above-average Atlantic storm season. Thankfully, no major hurricane has made landfall in the United States during the last five years, but forecasters warned Atlantic and Gulf coast residents their luck could run out this year.
You may recall that the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season was well above average, with the most number of named storms since 2005. There were 19 named storms, which tied the 1995 and 1887 Atlantic hurricane seasons for the third largest number of named storms. It also featured 12 hurricanes, which tied the 1969 season for the second largest number of hurricanes.
As for this year, as many as 18 named tropical storms may develop during the six-month Atlantic hurricane season which begins June 1. That's the word from forecasters at the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration. Six-to-10 of those storms could strengthen into hurricanes with top winds of at least 74 miles per hour. Three-to-six of those could become major hurricanes, with maximum winds of 111 miles per hour or more.
The 2011 season was not expected to be as extreme, since ocean temperatures are only two degrees warmer than normal. Last year, the ocean temperature was four degrees warmer. Also, a Pacific Ocean weather phenomenon known as “La Nina’’ was expected to dissipate early in the Summer before the season’s peak, which is typically from August to October.
The American Red Cross says families can take steps now to create an emergency plan. "This is an ideal time to get a disaster supply kit ready, make an evacuation plan with your family, and get information on what to do during a hurricane," said Charley Shimanski, senior vice president of Red Cross Disaster Services. "It's also the right time to learn how to locate a shelter, and new technology is making it even easier to do that."
Short-term, our weekend weather looks fairly good, with a slight chance of a shower or thunderstorm tomorrow afternoon. However, keep an eye to the sky later this afternoon for a possible strong thunderstorm, especially if any sunshine breaks through to stir up the atmosphere. Today's high will reach the mid 60s along the coast and 70 degrees or better inland. Tomorrow will bring a mix of sun and clouds with a high of 72, and fair and cooler weather is expected Sunday.
Have a good weekend.
Paul
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