NOAA Predicts a Less Active 2009 Hurricane Season

Scott Kappes

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With hurricane season fast approaching the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have released their annual hurricane season forecast and things look a little better than last year.

Last year there were 16 named storms, while this year NOAA is predicting only 14 named storms. Of the suspected 14 named storms NOAA is estimating that as many as 7 could become hurricanes, meaning having sustained winds of 76 mph or more. Of these suspected hurricanes NOAA is predicting that somewhere between 1 and 3 will become major hurricanes, or have sustained winds of 111 mph or greater.

Last year there were 8 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes so even if the high end predictions of this year’s forecast are accurate it looks to be a less active season than a year ago.

The administration gave a this hurricane season 50% chance or being “near-normal” and an equal 50% probability of being “below normal.” All of us located in coastal areas and are keeping our fingers crossed that NOAA’s estimated 25% chance of an “above-normal” season drops even lower as the season progresses.

If you have not yet done so this is the time prepare for the hurricane season and do everything that you can to ensure that your family and property remain safe in the unfortunate event that a hurricane strikes your area. I can tell you from first-hand experience in dealing with the damage left behind from Hurricane Ike, you can never be too prepared for hurricane.