Hurricane forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have updated their Atlantic hurricane season outlook saying it is above normal with the possibility that it can be very active.
The new outlook now predicts a fewer amount of hurricanes than originally projected in May. NOAA now expects between six and nine hurricanes.
The peak of hurricane season is mid-August through October. Four named storms have already been produced so far.
"Our confidence for an above-normal season is still high because the predicted atmospheric and oceanic conditions that are favorable for storm development have materialized," said Gerry Bell, seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA's Climate Prediction, in an email statement.
NOAA’s updated outlook now predicts a 70 percent chance for 13 to 19 named storms. Out of those named storms, they said six to nine could become hurricanes with wind speeds of over 74 miles per hour.
The ranges are higher than the seasonal average of 12 named storms with six hurricanes and three major hurricanes.
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"The peak of the hurricane season is almost upon us and it's important to remain prepared for hurricanes through November," said Joe Nimmich, FEMA Associate Administrator for Response and Recovery.
Hurricane officials say to review your family emergency plan. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping 72 hours of food and water on hand, and planning evacuation and communication strategies with family members.
Hurricane season runs through Nov. 30.
For continuous weather updates, download the NBC 6 Weather App here.
2013 Storm Names: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, Wendy
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