ATLANTIC OCEAN - It looks like it might be time for the East Coast to start preparing for an above-average hurricane season, according to a new report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The group’s forecasters have pinned the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30, at a potential 2 to 4 major hurricanes.

“The outlook reflects our expectation of a weak or non-existent El Nino, near- or above-average sea-surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and average or weaker-than-average vertical wind shear in that same region,” said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., Lead Seasonal Hurricane Forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.

According to the group’s press release, strong El Niños and wind shear typically hold back the development of Atlantic hurricanes. So, this year likely being a weak El Niño year would make for a season of increased hurricane activity. 

NOAA forecasters predict a 70 percent likelihood of between 11 to 17 named storms for the season, meaning winds of 39 mph or higher. Between five to nine could likely become hurricanes, meaning winds of 74 mph or higher. Two to four of these storms will likely develop into major hurricanes, meaning Category 3, 4 or 5, essentially storms with winds of 111 mph or higher. The NOAA marks an average season as one that produces 12 named storms, six hurricanes, and three or less major hurricanes.

"Regardless of how many storms develop this year, it only takes one to disrupt our lives," said Acting FEMA Administrator Robert J. Fenton, Jr., in the release. "Get ready now with these easy, low-cost steps that will leave you better prepared and will make all the difference: Have a family discussion about what you will do, where you will go, and how you will communicate with each other when a storm threatens; Know your evacuation route; tune into your local news or download the FEMA app to get alerts, and finally—listen to local authorities as a storm approaches.”

Last year in 2016, the NOAA marked the season as one of the most active since 2012, with 15 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. One of that season’s most notable storms was Hurricane Matthew, which took place just before PMA Fresh Summit last year. Matthew caused billions of dollars damage through the Caribbean, Florida, and South Carolina.

As experts gather more information about the incoming hurricane season, AndNowUKnow will fill you in on your need-to-know information.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration