The world is still recovering from 2017 record hurricane season. Many of the countries damaged by last year’s storms have barely made it to their feet. Forecasters are already warning people to prepare for this season though. Hurricane season doesn’t officially start until June 1st, but the first named storm could hit before then.
How Many Storms Can We Expect?
Multiple forecasters have been running models trying to determine how many storms people can expect this year. Most predict somewhere between 14-18 named storms, with at least 7-11 of those becoming hurricanes. Although the numbers vary a bit, all models predict an above average number of storms in 2018.
Hopefully, though 2018 will see fewer storms than 2017. Last year there were a total of 17 named storms, 10 of those becoming hurricanes and six of those being major hurricanes.
How Strong Will They Be?
Exuma and The Bahamas was lucky last year, just narrowly avoiding getting hit by the eye of all of the storms. Still, people should prepare for strong hurricanes. Many countries are still recovering from the brutal beatings they got. Hurricane Harvey caused severe flooding in Texas, Hurricane Irma destroyed much of Barbuda and Saint Martin, and Puerto Rico and Dominica are still struggling to get the basics like electricity back after Hurricane Maria.
Forecasters expect there to be a number of major hurricanes this year too. Low-pressure areas that form over warm ocean waters cause hurricanes, and as climate change continues scientist expect stronger and more frequent storms.
When Will The Storms Start?
Something is already brewing, despite hurricane season not officially starting for a few more weeks. The National Hurricane Center issued an outlook on Sunday about a storm that “could acquire some subtropical or tropical characteristics” as it moved into the Gulf of Mexico. Right now they’re giving it about a 40% chance of becoming a tropical cyclone in the next five days.
How To Prepare?
If you’re not prepared for hurricane season, now is the time to get to it. Make sure you know where the local hurricane shelters are. Having a stockpile of food and water is also recommended. As always, please bring pets inside for storms.