Updates

NOAA National Weather Service Releases Mid-Year Forecast Confirming Active Hurricane Season

Release Number: HQ-10-150

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service today issued its latest forecast for the 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season, reaffirming its May forecast of an active Atlantic hurricane season.  In light of this latest forecast, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reminds Americans living in coastal states that the time is now to ensure their family is prepared for a hurricane or other emergency.

"FEMA continues to work across the administration and with our state and local partners to ensure they're ready should a hurricane make landfall," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "But we can only be as prepared as the public, so it's important that families and businesses take steps now to be ready.  These include developing a communications plan, putting together a kit, and staying informed of the latest forecasts and local emergency plans.  You can't control when a hurricane or other emergency may happen, but you can make sure you're ready."

The 2010 Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 1 and runs through November 30.  The Eastern Pacific season runs from May 15 through November 30.  Three named storms have formed in the Atlantic this year, including the first June hurricane to form in more than a decade.  The National Weather Service forecast released today predicted, with 70 percent probability:

  • 14 to 20 Named Storms (top winds of 39 mph or higher), including:
  • 8 to 12 Hurricanes (top winds of 74 mph or higher), of which:
  • 4 to 6 could be Major Hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of at least 111 mph)
  • Read the most recent forecast from the National Weather Service.

Since before hurricane season started, FEMA personnel have been actively engaged with state and local officials in coastal states to ensure they have the support and resources necessary to prepare for and respond to a tropical storm or hurricane.  Coordination and planning this season has involved consideration of the effects that the BP oil spill could have on the response capabilities and recovery scenarios.

FEMA encourages everyone, regardless of whether they live in a hurricane-prone area, to take steps to ensure their family, homes and businesses are prepared for a possible emergency.  Important items to have ready in case of an emergency include a battery-powered radio (like a NOAA Weather Radio), flashlight, extra batteries, medicines, non-perishable food, hand-operated can opener, utility knife and first aid supplies. Important documents, such as medical records, contracts, property deeds, leases, banking records, insurance records and birth certificates, should be copied and kept in a safe place.

For more information on individual and family preparedness, visit www.Ready.gov.