NOAA predicted a record hurricane season Thursday, forecasting that up to 25 named tropical storms will hit the Atlantic basin this year, including four to seven major hurricanes.
The 2024 season, which officially begins next week, “is looking to be an extraordinary one in a number of ways,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, speaking at a press conference in Washington.
“Of note, the forecast for named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes is the highest NOAA has ever issued for the May outlook,” Spinrad said, adding that “the warmer ocean means it’s a more energetic ocean.”
Overall, NOAA said, there’s an 85 percent chance of an above-normal season this year, a 10 percent chance of a near-normal season and only a 5 percent chance of a below-normal season.
