According to researchers across the country, the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season may once again be above average. However, they’re calling for a season only slightly more active than normal.
An average hurricane season includes 12 named storms, 6.5 hurricanes and two major hurricanes. A major hurricane is classified as Category 3 or greater. The Atlantic Basin hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30, although tropical storms do happen outside the timeframe.
Researchers and meteorologists base forecasts on information from buoys, ships, weather balloons and satellites that measure water temperature, air pressure and wind. One factor affecting 2018’s hurricane season predictions of only slightly above average activity (while recent years have experienced very active seasons) is cooler ocean temperatures.
Regardless of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season predictions, residents in coastal communities should prepare. The number of storms (actual or predicted) does not correlate with the number of storms that make landfall in the US.
Below are specific predictions for the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season.
Colorado State University
This year’s season will be slightly above average.
- 14 named storms
- 7 hurricanes
- 3 major hurricanes
The Weather Company
This year’s season will be near historic averages.
- 13 named storms
- 6 hurricanes
- 2 major hurricanes
North Carolina State
This year’s season will be active.
- 14-18 named storms
- 7-11 hurricanes
- 3-5 major hurricanes
University College London
This year’s season will be less active than average.
- 12 named storms
- 6 hurricanes
- 2 major hurricanes
