Forecasters at the Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project have issued a cautionary prediction for the upcoming 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season, slated to commence on June 1.
During a presentation at the Topical Weather Conference, Senior Research Scientist Dr. Phil Klotzbach revealed that the region is expected to experience above-average levels of storm activity.
According to Dr. Klotzbach, the Atlantic basin is forecast to witness the formation of 23 named storms throughout the season, with eleven of them expected to intensify into hurricanes. Of these, five are projected to escalate into major hurricanes of Category 3 or stronger.
The forecast is attributed to higher-than-average sea temperatures, providing the requisite heat energy conducive to storm development. Additionally, a return to La Nina conditions later in the year is anticipated to result in minimal vertical wind shear, thereby facilitating the organization and strengthening of storm systems.
Director of Disaster Management, Jasen Penn, underscored the importance of early preparation in light of the forecast. While acknowledging that conditions and expectations can evolve as the season progresses, Penn emphasized the need for residents to take proactive steps to ready themselves for potential seasonal storms.
Mr. Penn highlighted forecasters’ prediction of a 66% probability of a major hurricane tracking through the Caribbean Sea, compared to the average probability of 47% in a typical year. Stressing the importance of preparedness, he urged residents to heed precautionary measures, emphasizing the adage, “It is better to prepare and prevent than to repair and repent.”
As the hurricane season approaches, residents are urged to stay vigilant by monitoring local weather reports shared daily via the Disaster Management Department (DDM) website and social media channels. Additionally, residents are encouraged to take several preparatory measures, including downloading the DDM App, creating or updating an emergency plan, inspecting property for vulnerabilities, assembling essential supplies, and ensuring adequate insurance coverage.
Residents can access a range of tools to aid in preparedness efforts, including a hurricane tracking map, an emergency kit checklist, and the latest list of emergency shelters, available at www.bviddm.com.