Scientists say this year will have more hurricanes than usual.
Forecasters expect that after two relatively moderate hurricane seasons, 2023 will look a lot like 2017, which saw three massive hurricanes.
Xubin Zeng, professor of hydrology and atmospheric sciences at the University of Arizona, says that while the damage shouldn’t be as bad as six years ago, people should still be prepared.
“This will be a very active hurricane season. That’s our message,” he said.
Researchers forecast at least nine hurricanes this year. Of those, five are expected to be major ones. In a normal year, researchers predict seven such storms.
Hurricanes occur when low-pressure air moves through moisture-rich tropical environments, enhancing thunderstorms and devastating wind. Typically Southern and Eastern coastlines of the U.S. feel the brunt of hurricane damage.
Researchers submit their predictions twice per year, in April and June. The April predictions are based on data from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts. Researchers then refine and revise their predictions based on observational data obtained from March through May.
• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.