Experts from the US National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida said the 2002 Atlantic hurricane season will likely have normal to slightly above normal levels of activity. The scientists credit tropical rainfall patterns, air pressure and higher temperatures of the Atlantic Ocean that are more conducive to hurricane development as primary reasons for the vigorous forecast. These warmer ocean temperatures, combined with lower wind shear in the hurricane development region, have historically generated higher numbers of major hurricanes.

The outlook calls for the potential of nine to thirteen tropical storms, with six to eight hurricanes, and two to three classified as major hurricanes (category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale). Officials advised residents in Atlantic and Gulf Coast states to be prepared throughout the season, which runs June 1 through November 30. Above-normal activity has been observed during six of the last seven Atlantic hurricane seasons.

Related features:
Tropical Storms
East Pacific Hurricane Season 2002