WASHINGTON — It has already been a busy hurricane season this year. Now forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration think it could get worse.
Forecasters with the Climate Prediction Center, a division of NOAA are now calling for a possible "extremely active" hurricane season in the Atlantic Basin. It's a change from the May forecast, which called for an active season.
The DMV is still recovering after Tropical Storm Isaias moved through the area Tuesday causing heavy rain, flash flooding, severe storms and tornadoes.
Experts are now predicting 19 to 25 named storms (winds of 39 mph or greater), of which 7 to11 will become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater). This update includes the nine named storms that have formed so far.
This has the potential to be the busiest hurricane season on record, NOAA experts said.
“This is one of the most active seasonal forecasts that NOAA has produced in its 22-year history of hurricane outlooks. NOAA will continue to provide the best possible science and service to communities across the Nation for the remainder of hurricane season to ensure public readiness and safety,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “We encourage all Americans to do their part by getting prepared, remaining vigilant, and being ready to take action when necessary.”
Historically speaking, only two named storms form on average by early August, and the ninth named storm typically does not form until October 4. An average season produces 12 named storms, including six hurricanes of which three become major hurricanes (Category 3, 4, or 5).