The NOAA predictions are in for the 2011 hurricane season and another above average season is expected.
Hurricane season officially begins June 1st and runs through November 30th. On average, a hurricane season will spawn 11 named storms, six of which will strengthen to hurricane status with two of these hurricanes becoming major hurricanes, categories three through five.
While this year is not expected to be as active as the 2010 hurricane season, the predictions still call for an above average season:
12-18 named storms,
6-10 hurricanes, and
3-6 major hurricanes.
Looking back to last season, the third busiest season in history, we were very lucky that only Tropical Storm Bonnie made landfall in the United States, south Florida. No hurricane made landfall. Experts say that we are likely not to be as lucky this year and should be prepared. NewsChannel 15's Chief Meteorologist Ed Piotrowski always says, "Numbers don't matter. It only takes one to make it a bad season for us."
Here are some other known forecaster's predictions:
Pennsylvania State University calls for 16 named storms.
Colorado State University anticipates 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes.
North Carolina State University is expecting 13-16 named storms, 7-9 hurricanes, and 3-5 major hurricanes
How do you feel about these predictions? Do you prepare more for an above average season or do you prepare the same every year no matter the forecast?
