Predictions For 2014 Hurricane Season

The 2014 hurricane season is predicted to be likely near or below normal. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Administrator Kathryn Sullivan announced (May 22nd).

Forecasters expect to see between 8 and 13 tropical storms, of which 3 to 6 will be hurricanes and 1 or 2 could potentially grow to Category 3 strength or greater, with winds above 110 mph.

Sullivan provided a warning, that even if the season includes a below normal number of storms, coastal residents should recognize that hurricane landfalls often occur during less active years, with devastating results.

"It only takes one destructive storm to make a very bad season on the ground in our communities," Sullivan said. Forecasters expect beneficial trade wind and atmospheric stability conditions in the Atlantic basin that will make it difficult for storms to develop.  An update on Atlantic conditions will be issued in August, prior to peak hurricane season.