Overview

• NOAA forecasts 13 to 19 named storms, including 6 to 10 hurricanes and 3 to 5 major hurricanes, giving a 60% chance of an above-normal season.
• Record-warm ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic basin are providing abundant energy for storms to strengthen rapidly.
• La Niña conditions and intensified tropical waves off the African coast are expected to fuel storm development throughout the season.
• Budget and staffing cuts at the National Weather Service and FEMA have raised concerns over forecasting capabilities and disaster response capacity.
• Experts urge communities, especially those still recovering from recent storms, to bolster hurricane preparedness as early as June.