The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts that 14-21 named tropical systems will develop in the Atlantic basin this year, the organization announced Tuesday.
Of the up to 21 tropical systems expected this year, NOAA projects 6-10 hurricanes with 3-6 major hurricanes. Hurricanes are tropical systems with sustained winds of at least 74 mph while major hurricanes are storms with at least 111 mph.
The prediction comes a year after the Atlantic basin had 21 named storms, seven of which became hurricanes. Forecasters correctly predicted the season would be above average but not quite reach the historical figures from the 2020 hurricane season, which saw 30 named storms, 14 of which became hurricanes.
Of the 2021’s seven hurricanes, four were major hurricanes, including Hurricane Ida, which made landfall as a Category 4 on Aug. 29.
Officials reminded the public that a storm can have far-fetching impacts beyond just the point of landfall.
“Hurricane Ida spanned nine states, demonstrating that anyone can be in the direct path of a hurricane and in danger from the remnants of a storm system,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “It’s important for everyone to understand their risk and take proactive steps to get ready now by visiting Ready.gov and Listo.gov for preparedness tips, and by downloading the FEMA App to make sure you are receiving emergency alerts in real-time.”