NOAA Forecasts Above-Average Hurricane Season Despite Competing Weather Patterns

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts 12 to 17 named storms in the Atlantic, including 5 to 9 hurricanes, despite an El Nino that could suppress storm formation.
Unusually warm Atlantic ocean temperatures could fuel powerful hurricanes that intensify rapidly and drop heavy rain.
There is a 40% chance of a normal season but also 30% chances of above-average or below-average activity due to uncertainty from warring weather phenomena.
NOAA forecasts a 93% chance of an El Nino weather pattern forming that sends wind shear over the Atlantic, limiting storm development, but the warm Atlantic could help systems form and strengthen to overcome it.
Regardless of the outlook, coastal communities need to prepare for the risks of flooding, wind damage, power outages and other impacts from even one powerful storm.