The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released its updated hurricane outlook for the 2021 Atlantic season, and it predicts more storms for the season.

What You Need To Know

  • Forecasters predict a 65% chance of an above-average season

  • They say we could see 15-21 named storms

  • The average number of named storms during a season is 14

  • Experts do not anticipate the historic level of storm activity seen in 2020

NOAA released its updated seasonal outlook Wednesday, calling for 15-21 named storms, 7-10 hurricanes and 3-5 major hurricanes in the Atlantic.

Keep in mind that these numbers include the 5 storms we have already seen this season.

Before, NOAA said we could see 13-20 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes, and 3-5 major hurricanes.

The average is 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes.


Forecasters at Colorado State University released their updated prediction last month, which also calls for an above-average season.

NOAA says Atlantic sea surface temperatures are not expected to be as warm as they were during the record-breaking 2020 season.

However, reduced vertical wind shear and an enhanced west Africa monsoon contribute to the current conditions that can increase seasonal hurricane activity.

Always be prepared

The official season runs from June 1 to November 30.

Even though forecasters don't predict a record-breaking season like last year, it's always best to be prepared before a storm hits.

The prediction doesn't mean every storm will make landfall. But remember, it only takes one storm to devastate a community.