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Residents along the Atlantic coast of both Canada and the United States are being urged to prepare for what meteorologists are predicting will be an above-normal hurricane season. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its forecast for the 2024 hurricane season, indicating an 85 percent chance of above-normal activity. Forecasters anticipate between 17 to 25 named storms, with sustained winds of at least 62 kilometers per hour, eight to 13 hurricanes, and four to seven major hurricanes.
NOAA administrator Rick Spinrad emphasized that this forecast marks the highest number of predicted storms in May that NOAA has ever issued. He stated that this hurricane season is expected to be extraordinary due to various contributing factors, including rising ocean temperatures and the onset of La Niña conditions.
La Niña refers to a cooling of surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, leading to increased precipitation and wind patterns. NOAA anticipates La Niña's influence from August to the end of the hurricane season in October. These conditions provide fuel for hurricanes and tropical storms, as warmer-than-normal ocean temperatures create a conducive environment for storm development.
Matt Rosencrans, lead hurricane seasonal outlook forecaster at NOAA, highlighted that ocean temperatures in prime hurricane development areas are currently elevated, resembling mid-August conditions, which are typically warmer than normal by one to two degrees Celsius. However, Rosencrans noted that La Niña may also contribute to storm development by reducing high-altitude winds, known as wind shear, which can weaken hurricanes.
The peak of the hurricane season typically spans from mid-August to mid-October, with the official season beginning on June 1st. The Canadian Hurricane Centre is also preparing for an active season, with meteorologist Bob Robichaud emphasizing that Atlantic Canada usually experiences approximately 35 percent of tropical storms that enter the region.
While the forecast may raise concerns among residents, officials stress the importance of preparedness. Erik Hooks, deputy administrator of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), urged individuals to take proactive measures, such as ensuring access to essential medications, medical devices requiring electricity, and mobility aids in case of emergencies. Additionally, Hooks emphasized the necessity of having a comprehensive plan in place for handling disasters.
In summary, meteorologists are predicting an above-normal hurricane season for the Atlantic coast of Canada and the United States. Factors such as rising ocean temperatures and the onset of La Niña conditions contribute to the heightened risk of storms. Residents are advised to prepare by taking essential precautions and developing comprehensive emergency plans to mitigate potential impacts.
