Topic: U.S. Hurricane season likely a bit busier...

[NeverWinter]

Forecast update comes as survey finds many reluctant to evacuate.

TAMPA, Fla. - The 2008 Atlantic hurricane season could be slightly busier than average, with a good chance of six to nine hurricanes forming, federal forecasters said Thursday in a new way of making predictions.

The national Climate Prediction Center also said 12 to 16 named storms and two to five major hurricanes could form.

The center predicted a 65 percent probability of an above normal season and a 25 percent probability of a near normal season. "This means there is a 90 percent chance of a near or above normal season," the center stated.

It also said there is only a 60 to 70 percent chance for the predictions to come true, the first time officials gave a probability.

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[ocala]

I don't put too much stock in these outlooks. They are pointless forecasts really. Just more fuel for the media to get everyone hyped up. I'm waiting for the forecasts to be eventually sponsored by Home Depot and Lowes

[WeatherBeacon]

I don't put too much stock in these outlooks. They are pointless forecasts really. Just more fuel for the media to get everyone hyped up. I'm waiting for the forecasts to be eventually sponsored by Home Depot and Lowes

I'm afraid I have my reservations about climatological forecasting, too. It has become too agenda-driven and politicized.

How many Atlantic hurricanes were there last year ... compared to the average number?

Kevin...

[WeatherBeacon]

From MSNBC: (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24775844/)

Last year, there were 15 named storms and six hurricanes, two of which were major. The government predicted 13 to 17 named storms, seven to 10 hurricanes and three to five major hurricanes.

Colorado State University weather researcher William Gray was further off the mark. Before the start of the season, he forecast nine hurricanes, five of them major.

     

[WeatherBeacon]

The center predicted a 65 percent probability of an above normal season and a 25 percent probability of a near normal season. "This means there is a 90 percent chance of a near or above normal season," the center stated.

It also said there is only a 60 to 70 percent chance for the predictions to come true, the first time officials gave a probability.

Ya gotta love it.

[Mark / Ohio]

Ya gotta love it.

Apparently a graduate with honors from the Alan Greenspan School of Weather Forecasting wrote that.     

[Mark / Ohio]

....I'm waiting for the forecasts to be eventually sponsored by Home Depot and Lowes

I would also add the oil companies both drilling and with shore line docks in the gulf to that list.   

[neondesert]

I would also add the oil companies both drilling and with shore line docks in the gulf to that list.   

I can see the headline now...Oil prices skyrocket based on predictions of busy Atlantic hurricane season!   

Thanks NOAA!