The Atlantic basin is expected to see an above- normal hurricane season this year, according to the seasonal outlook issued by NOAA’S Climate Prediction Center- A division of the National Weather Service. Across the entire Atlantic Basin for the six –month season, which begins June 1, NOAA is predicting the following ranges this year.
- 12 to 18 named storms ( winds of 39 mph r higher ), of which
- 6 to 10 could become hurricanes ( winds of 74 mph or higher), including
- 3 to 6 major hurricanes ( Category 3,4 or 5, winds of 111mph or higher
Terms:
- Tropical Depression– An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum winds of 38 MPH.
- Tropical Storm- An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum winds of 39-73 MPH.
- Hurricane – Intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum winds of 74 MPH or higher.
- Storm Surge- A dome of water pushed onshore by a hurricane and tropical storm winds. Storm surges can reach 25 feet high and be 50-1000 miles wide.
- Storm Tide – A combination of storm surge and the normal tide (A 15-foot storm surge combined with a 2-foot normal high tide over the mean sea level creates a 17-foot storm tide).
- Hurricane /Tropical Watch: storm conditions are possible in the specified area, usually within 36 hours.
- Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning– Hurricane /tropical storm conditions are expected conditions are expected in the specified area, usually within 24 hours.
Are you ready for the hurricane season ?
Check out our Hurricane Preparedness Checklist Here.