2013 hurricane landfall expected to remain normal
June 5, 2013 | By
Barbara Vergetis Lundin
Forecasts are in for the 2013 hurricane season.
The 2013 Atlantic hurricane season will include 14 to 18 named tropical storms, according to the WeatherBug meteorology team. By comparison, 1981 to 2010 averaged 12 named storms. Seven to 10 of these storms could become hurricanes with sustained winds of 74 mph or higher. Three to five are predicted to become major hurricanes with winds in excess of 111 mph. In comparison, 1981 to 2010 averaged about six hurricanes -- two were major. Despite the above-normal forecast, the potential for hurricane landfall in the U.S. is expected to remain normal for the 2013 season, according to WeatherBug. "We expect sea-surface temperatures in the Atlantic to be warmer than average. This is part of a 20-30 year cycle that began in 1995 and has corresponded to increased hurricane activity," said Julie Gaddy, senior meteorologist at WeatherBug. "Further, neutral El Niño - La Niña Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions -- meaning that there is no El Niño to increase wind shear in the tropical Atlantic and decrease the potential for tropical activity -- are contributing to the expectation of a more active 2013 season." Colorado State University has predicted an above-average season, with about 18 named tropical storms, nine hurricanes and four major hurricanes this season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also predicts an above-average season, bringing the possibility of 13-20 named storms, seven to 11 hurricanes and three to six major hurricanes. For more: Sign up for our FREE newsletter for more news like this sent to your inbox! © 2013 FierceMarkets. All rights reserved. http://www.fierceenergy.com http://www.fierceenergy.com/story/2013-hurricane-landfall-expected-remain-normal/2013-06-05 |