NOAA’s Latest Forecast Expects Heavier Hurricane Season

BARNSTABLE – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) calls for a higher likelihood of a near-normal or above-normal season for hurricanes in its updated 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook.

The administration had previously predicted 10-16 named storms, with 4-8 hurricanes and 1-4 major hurricanes.

Now, the forecast calls for a 70 percent chance that it will instead include 12-17 named storms, 5-8 hurricanes and 2-4 major hurricanes.

The change comes after observations showing the end of El Nino, weaker vertical wind shear and other factors were logged by the administration.

So far, the season has brought five named storms, including two hurricanes. The season is still expected to be the most active since 2012.