Experts Predict Another Active Hurricane Season in the Atlantic

For 2021, researchers at The Weather Channel are predicting an above-average Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. Dr. Todd Crawford, chief meteorologist, anticipates a total of 18 named storms in 2021, with eight of them being hurricanes and three being major hurricanes (with winds exceeding 115 miles per hour). Disclosure 1 1 Weather.com, “2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Expected to Be More Active Than Normal,” accessed April 22, 2021, https://weather.com/storms/hurricane/news/2021-04-13-atlantic-hurricane-season-outlooks-april-twc-csu  

This forecast is above the 30-year average of 14 named storms per year from 1991-2020. These predictions are based on statistical models that use historical hurricane season data and evaluate conditions like Atlantic sea surface temperatures, sea level pressures, vertical wind shear levels, and other factors.

Last year, a record number of 11 named storms made landfall in the United States during the 2020 hurricane season, including six hurricanes.

To prepare the inside and outside of your home for hurricane season, check out these tips.

An important part of preparing for hurricane season is reviewing your current insurance coverage with an insurance professional — especially if you live within 100 miles of a coastal area. Get familiar with what your homeowners policy covers during a hurricane and know your deductible. Remember homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage that often follows hurricanes, so consider a flood insurance policy if you don’t already have one.