NOAA Predicts Above-Normal 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Today marks the official start of the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season which will continue through November. Just last week, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) published their outlook for the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season. NOAA predicts that the 2016 Atlantic basin hurricane season will be above-normal. According to NOAA’s Dr. Gerry Bell, PhD., this hurricane season outlook reflects forecasters expectation of a weak or non-existent El Nino, near- or above-average sea-surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and average or weaker-than-average vertical wind shear in that same region.

Strong El Ninos and wind shear typically suppress development of Atlantic hurricanes, so the prediction for weak conditions points to more hurricane activity this year. Also, warmer sea surface temperatures tend to fuel hurricanes as they move across the ocean. However, the climate models are showing considerable uncertainty, which is reflected in the comparable probabilities for an above-normal and near-normal season. Overall, the 2017 could be comparable to last year which was the most active with 15 named-storms (7 hurricanes, 4 of those major), the most since 2012.

According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, there is a 70% chance of 11 to 17 named storms with 5 to 9 of those becoming hurricanes with 2 to 4 major hurricanes (category 3 or higher). An average season produces 12 named storms of which six become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes. The 2017 named-storm count began in April when Tropical Storm Arlene formed over the eastern Atlantic.

NOAA 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook

Below is a comparison of the NOAA and Colorado State University’s predictions along with the 1981-2010 average and final numbers for 2012-2016. As you can see, the 2017 NOAA high end and CSU predictions are above the long term average. Additionally, NOAA’s low end predictions bookend the 2016 hurricane season actual numbers.

2017 Hurricane Season Prediction Comparison

 

 

2017 Atlantic Basin Tropical Cyclone Names

  • Arlene
  • Bret
  • Cindy
  • Don
  • Emily
  • Franklin
  • Gert
  • Harvey
  • Irma
  • Jose
  • Katia
  • Lee
  • Maria
  • Nate
  • Ophelia
  • Philippe
  • Rina
  • Sean
  • Tammy
  • Vince
  • Whitney
  • Followed by the greek alphabet, if needed.

NOAA 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Storm Names

It is important to keep in mind that this annual forecast is a prediction, not what will happen. Mother Nature can, and will do whatever she wants and even the best forecast models will be thrown for a loop. It is imperative to stay alert in the event a system develops and for those living in coastal areas to be prepared.

Tropical Weather Center Logo 2015

We will continue to track tropical systems that have the potential to impact cruise itineraries as well as frequent Caribbean and Bahamian ports of call. We strive to provide accurate and updated information, but ultimately the best source of up to date information on these systems the National Hurricane Center and your local National Weather Service offices. Basically, what I am saying is that we should not be used as official forecast information. The goal is to share the information from the NHC and how it relates or impacts it may have on the sailings and ports of call.

We have been covering hurricane season since the website launched and have a dedicated Tropical Weather page.

4 Replies to “NOAA Predicts Above-Normal 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season”

  1. Christian

    Hello, my wife and I are planning a 7-night eastern caribbean cruise (sail date 9th of September 2017). At the moment we are very scared about the hurricane forecast. Since we are from Germany we have no experience with hurricanes. May have someone more information about the forecast for September. How are the current news to evaluate? What happens if a hurricane occurs? Thanks a lot in advance…

    Best regards from Germany,
    Christian

    Reply
    1. Scott Sanders Post author

      Tropical weather is not easy to forecast, especially long term forecasts. If need be, the captains will sail away from the system or the ship may switch to a different itinerary to avoid a tropical system. Keep in mind, if you look at travel insurance make sure they include tropical weather related issues – most policies that do are only good if they are purchased before a storm develops.

      We’ve been on a cruise that was altered after sailing due to tropical weather and the system did NOT impact our vacation. I would not hesitate booking another cruise during peak hurricane season.

      The safety of passengers, cast, crew, and the ship are always a primary concern of Disney Cruise Line.

      Reply

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