NOAA predicts highest-ever number of named storms in preseason forecast

MIAMI — In the highest hurricane season forecast they have ever issued in May, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration forecasters said Thursday that the coming months may be exceptionally busy.

“The forecast for named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes is the highest NOAA has ever issued for the May outlook,” Rick Spinrad, the agency’s administrator, said in a news conference. “This season is looking to be an extraordinary one in a number of ways.” NOAA predicts eight to 13 hurricanes, and 17 to 25 named storms. Storms get names when their wind speeds reach 39 mph or higher.

Given the near-record warmth in much of the Atlantic Ocean and a strong chance of La Niña conditions, forecasters said there is an 85% chance of an above-normal season along the Atlantic seaboard. NOAA is far from alone in making such a prediction.