A slightly below average hurricane season is in the forecast for 2023 according to the prediction issued last week by scientists at Colorado State University. The prediction for the upcoming season says there will be at least 13 named storms and 6 hurricanes; 2 of which will be at a Category 3 strength or higher.
An average season normally has 14 named storms, around 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes.
Residents living along the U.S. coastline and in the Caribbean should be prepared for “a below average probability for major hurricanes making landfall” near their homes, researchers said. But that doesn’t mean we’re off scot-free, either.
Hurricane season begins officially in June and lasts through November.
The trend has been an increase in hurricane activity over the past several years. The 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season was record-breaking, with 30 named storms and 13 hurricanes, including six major hurricanes and was only the second time the Greek alphabet was utilized to complete a season.
“As is the case with all hurricane seasons, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season for them,” the researchers said. “They should prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much activity is predicted.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is expected to release their forecast in May.
For residents of the Lowcountry, with fresh memories of Hurricanes Matthew, Irma and Dorian, we’ve learned that planning is essential so that no hurricane will catch us unprepared. Make a plan. Put a plan together with your family, friends or household. Consider specific needs in your household. Put together a Family Emergency Plan, and then practice your plan with your family/household.
Buckle up Beaufort….we may be in for a bumpy ride this summer and fall. Let’s just hope that we don’t see much of anything in our area.
READ: Hurricane preparedness in the Lowcountry
READ: Hurricane names for 2023 season
READ: Beaufort History: The deadly Sea Island Hurricane of 1893
