NOAA predicts near-normal hurricane season

MIAMI (AP) — U.S. government forecasters expect a near-normal Atlantic hurricane season, after three relatively slow years. But they also say climate conditions that influence storm development are making it difficult to predict how many hurricanes and tropical storms will arise over the next six months. In fact, the first named storm of the 2016 season has already occurred with Alex forming in way back in January.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s season outlook calls for 10 to 16 named storms, with four to eight hurricanes and one to four “major” ones with winds reaching 111 mph and up.

The Atlantic hurricane season officially starts June 1st.

The National Hurricane Center says an area of low pressure between Bermuda and the Bahamas has a high chance of brewing into something stronger Friday or Saturday. NOAA officials warned communities in Georgia and the Carolinas to monitor that disturbance.

Be sure to tune into our hurricane special on June 1 at 5 p.m. right here on WWAY NewsChannel 3!