Expect an Above-Average Atlantic Hurricane Season, Says Forecaster

National forecasters have increased their expectations of an above-average hurricane season over the Atlantic basin, according to a Wednesday briefing from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The updated seasonal outlook predicts that 15 to 21 named storms of 39 mph (63 kph) or greater will form, of which seven to 10 may become hurricanes with wind speeds of 74 mph (119 kph) or greater. Both predictions mark slight increases from the May forecast released by NOAA.   NOAA also expects this season three to five major hurricanes — hurricanes whose top winds reach 111 mph (179 kph) or greater.  “A mix of competing oceanic and atmospheric conditions generally favor above-average activity for the remainder of the Atlantic hurricane season, including the potential return of La Niña in the months ahead,” said Matthew Rosencrans, a hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.