(WDNews) Federal forecasters are reducing their projections for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, but just somewhat.
A revised outlook issued Thursday by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) now predicts 13 to 18 named storms, including five to nine hurricanes. Two to five of those are predicted to develop into Category 3 or stronger major storms.
This is a slight drop from the May forecast, which called for up to 10 hurricanes and 19 named storms. The likelihood of an above-normal season has decreased from 60% to 50%, according to officials.
There have already been four named tropical storms this year.
With peak activity occurring between mid-August and mid-October, the Atlantic hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to November 30. Typically, a season has three major hurricanes, seven hurricanes, and fourteen named storms.
Officials say there is still plenty of season left despite the modification. Laura Grimm, the acting administrator of NOAA, stressed the agency’s preparedness to act.
According to Grimm, NOAA is prepared to offer the predictions and warnings that are essential for protecting people, property, and communities.
She pointed out that the forecast from the previous year was precise and within expected ranges.
As the season goes on, residents in the Wiregrass area and throughout the Gulf Coast and Southeast region are advised to be ready and pay close attention to weather updates.
