With less than two months until the start of the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season, researchers at Colorado State University announced their first tropical outlook Thursday morning.
The forecast calls for an average to slightly above-average season, with a total of 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes and 4 those becoming major hurricanes.
A "average" season, based on a period from 1991-2020, produces 14 named storms. Of those, 7 are hurricanes, and 3 are major hurricanes.
The term "major hurricane" refers to any storm that reaches at least Category 3 strength, regardless of whether it impacts land or not.
This year's tropical outlook offers a little more uncertainty than usual since we're transitioning from La Niña into a neutral phase over the next few months.
Historically, the lack of a La Niña or El Niño tends to bring more volatility as tropical systems are more driven by smaller-scale features that can be harder to predict, especially a few months in advance.
We can, however, still gather some clues by looking at factors like water temperatures across the Atlantic basin, which are currently running above average.
The biggest takeaway of pre-season forecasts is to look at the trends and have an appreciation for what we'll likely be dealing with this season. Use this as base knowledge and prepare for this season as you would any other.
Over the next two months, take stock of your property and identify any large-ticket items that may need special attention, like tree removal or roof repair. As the season approaches, start stocking your hurricane kit with appropriate food and water reserves and think about your supply of tarps, batteries and generator supplies.
Being proactive and aware of what's happening is always better than being unprepared.
Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June 1 through November 30.
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