The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a near-normal Atlantic hurricane season in 2023. NOAA is predicting 12 to 17 named storms, 5 to 9 hurricanes, and 1 to 4 major hurricanes. A major hurricane is a Category 3, 4, or 5 storm with winds of at least 111 miles per hour.
The names for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season are:
- Arlene
- Bret
- Cindy
- Don
- Emily
- Franklin
- Gert
- Harvey
- Irma
- Jose
- Katia
- Laura
- Marco
- Nana
- Omar
- Paulette
- Richard
- Sally
- Teddy
- Vicky
- Wilfred
The first storm of the season, Tropical Storm Arlene, formed on June 1. Arlene made landfall in Newfoundland, Canada, as a tropical storm on June 3.
The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be influenced by several factors, including:
- The El Niño-La Niña climate pattern. El Niño typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity, while La Niña can increase it. NOAA is forecasting a weak El Niño to develop in the summer of 2023.
- The Atlantic Ocean sea surface temperature. Warmer sea surface temperatures are favorable for hurricane development. NOAA is forecasting above-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean during the 2023 hurricane season.
- The African easterly jet stream. The African easterly jet stream is a band of strong winds that flows from east to west across Africa. The jet stream can help to steer tropical disturbances into the Atlantic Ocean, where they can develop into hurricanes. NOAA is forecasting a typical African easterly jet stream during the 2023 hurricane season.
Residents of coastal areas should be prepared for the possibility of a hurricane during the 2023 season. They should have a plan in place for evacuation and should make sure they have enough food, water, and other supplies to last for several days.
For more information about the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, please visit the NOAA website: https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/2023-atlantic-hurricane-season-outlook