Brace Yourself (Still) for the 2007 Hurricane Season

According to a NOAA Climate Prediction Center Press Release, the 2007 Atlantic Hurricane season, although fairly quiet so far, could still be a monster season. Peak months for hurricanes are August through October and NOAA thinks we still may see a big one. There is an 85% chance the season could still be above normal. Earlier in the year, a May press release on hurricane intensity stated that the season would be above normal.

The Climate Prediction Center states a likelihood of 13 to 16 named storms, with seven to nine becoming hurricanes, of which three to five could become major hurricanes. The reason is due in part to a developing La Niña. Scientists are already observing wind patterns similar to those created by La Niña across the tropical Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea that encourage tropical cyclone development. (Clicking on the picture to the left gives a great explanation of the reasons the season may be strong.)

Andrea, Barry, and Chantal have already been named this year. (Dean, you are next.) Also available is a complete list of possible storm names for the 2007 Atlantic Season. Is another record-breaking storm (like Katrina or Rita or Andrew or Ivan) heading our way? Only time will tell. Go to the Hurricane Tracking Image Gallery to see the path of all named storms from 1995 through 2006.