The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has updated its original predictions for the Atlantic hurricane season, announcing the likelihood of greater hurricane activity.
The amended 2023 outlook now forecasts an “above-normal” season with 14 to 21 named storms. Of those storms, six to 12 are predicted to become hurricanes, and two to five are predicted to become major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater). NOAA’s original prediction released in May forecast a “near-normal” season with 12 to 17 named storms, and between five to nine hurricanes.
NOAA cites record-warm Atlantic Ocean surface temperatures and the slow development of the El Niño as factors fueling increased storm development. Officials are urging everyone to remain prepared for hurricane activity.
OUC is here to help you and your family through this year’s storm season with OUC’s Online Storm Center. This one-stop resource includes preparation videos, safety tips and a live outage map.
With increased storm activity expected, now is a good time to stock your hurricane preparedness kit. A second disaster sales tax holiday begins Aug. 26 and lasts until Sept. 8. It was implemented to help Floridians purchase supplies during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. For a list of qualifying items, click here.
