SAFETY ALERT: Experts predict an above-normal hurricane season
AUGUSTA, Ga. – With the CSRA still recovering from Helene, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric istration predicts an above-average 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.
The outlook predicts a 30% chance of a near-normal season, a 60% chance of an above-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.
NOAA predicts there will be between 13 and 19 named storms with about 10 becoming hurricanes.
Of those, the istration thinks three to five will become major hurricanes, described as category three or higher, with winds of 111 mph or higher.
NOAA has 70% confidence in these ranges.
“NOAA and the National Weather Service are using the most advanced weather models and cutting-edge hurricane tracking systems to provide Americans with real-time storm forecasts and warnings,” said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. “With these models and forecasting tools, we have never been more prepared for hurricane season.”
According to NOAA, the season is expected to be above normal – due to a confluence of factors, including continued ENSO-neutral conditions, warmer than average ocean temperatures, forecasts for weak wind shear, and the potential for higher activity from the West African Monsoon, a primary starting point for Atlantic hurricanes.
The expectation of an above-average season comes as the federal agencies tasked with helping the communities deal with the storms struggle with preparedness.
NOAA and FEMA have both experienced cuts in staffing.
LAST HURRICANE SEASON
Helene: Recovery by the numbers
- As of May 14, FEMA has approved more than 402,710 applications for assistance and has approved more than $369.5 million in assistance to survivors for Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Debby.
- The assistance includes more than $11.7 million in rental aid to more than 4,839 Georgia families. Additionally, to date, FEMA secured long-term housing for nearly 288 families.
- FEMA has approved more than $556.1 million in public assistance to help communities remove debris and pay for management costs incurred by the state due to Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Debby.
- To date, more than 40.1 million cubic yards of debris have been removed.
“As we witnessed last year with significant inland flooding from hurricanes Helene and Debby, the impacts of hurricanes can reach far beyond coastal communities,” said Acting NOAA Laura Grimm. “NOAA is critical for the delivery of early and accurate forecasts and warnings, and provides the scientific expertise needed to save lives and property.”
Hurricane season is June 1 to Nov. 30.
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