Introduction to Hurricane Season
Forecasters have slightly reduced the number of expected hurricanes and named storms in the Atlantic this year following an “unusually quiet” period of activity during the peak of hurricane season.
AccuWeather is now predicting 13 to 16 named storms and six to nine hurricanes, according to an update Thursday. Its previous forecast, issued in March, predicted 13 to 18 named storms and seven to 10 hurricanes.
Factors Influencing the Forecast
The estimated range of storms with direct impacts to the U.S. remains the same, however, at three to six.
“AccuWeather hurricane experts are constantly refining and integrating new data into our predictions,” Alex DaSilva, the company’s lead hurricane expert, said in a prepared statement. “Unusual surges of dry air, Saharan dust, disruptive wind shear, cooler water temperatures off the western coast of Africa, and other atmospheric conditions have hampered multiple tropical waves from developing into tropical storms or hurricanes, during what are typically the peak weeks of tropical activity in the Atlantic basin.”
Current Forecast and Potential Threats
AccuWeather is still forecasting three to five major hurricanes this season. DaSilva emphasized that people should not let their guards down, pointing to hurricanes Helene and Milton, both of which developed after the peak of hurricane season and made landfall in Florida.
So far in 2025, there have been six named storms.
Forecasters are watching a potential system near west Africa, expected to become a tropical wave by Friday. Conditions could support slow development of the system as it moves to the west or west-northwest, and it’s given a 30% chance of formation in the next seven days.
The next named storm would be Gabrielle.
Forecasters are watching a system just emerging off the coast of west Africa. It has a 30% chance of development in the next seven days. (National Hurricane Center/Courtesy)
Originally Published: September 11, 2025 at 11:45 AM EDT
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the expected number of hurricanes and named storms in the Atlantic has been slightly reduced, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and prepared for potential storms. The forecast can change, and it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in hurricane season.
FAQs
Q: What is the current forecast for named storms and hurricanes in the Atlantic?
A: AccuWeather is predicting 13 to 16 named storms and six to nine hurricanes.
Q: What factors have contributed to the reduced forecast?
A: Unusual surges of dry air, Saharan dust, disruptive wind shear, and cooler water temperatures off the western coast of Africa have hampered tropical wave development.
Q: How many major hurricanes are forecasted for this season?
A: AccuWeather is forecasting three to five major hurricanes.
Q: What is the estimated range of storms with direct impacts to the U.S.?
A: The estimated range remains the same at three to six.
Q: What is the next named storm expected to be?
A: The next named storm would be Gabrielle.
