NOAA Releases Highly Anticipated 2025 Hurricane Season Forecast

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released its forecast for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, predicting a 60% chance of above-average activity. The season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, is expected to produce between 13 and 19 named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of these, 6 to 10 could become hurricanes, including 3 to 5 major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or higher.

NOAA attributes the anticipated increase in activity to a "confluence of factors," including ENSO-neutral conditions, warmer ocean temperatures, weak wind shear, and potential activity from the West African Monsoon. These elements are conducive to tropical storm formation.

“NOAA and the National Weather Service are using the most advanced weather models and cutting-edge hurricane tracking systems to provide Americans with real-time storm forecasts and warnings,” said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. “With these models and forecasting tools, we have never been more prepared for hurricane season.”

NOAA's acting administrator, Laura Grimm, noted that last year's forecast was accurate, with 18 named storms, including Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which led to over 400 fatalities. The 2024 season was the deadliest since 2005 and the third-costliest on record.

“As we witnessed last year with significant inland flooding from hurricanes Helene and Debby, the impacts of hurricanes can reach far beyond coastal communities,” said Grimm. “NOAA is critical for the delivery of early and accurate forecasts and warnings, and provides the scientific expertise needed to save lives and property.”

Other forecasters, such as Colorado State University and AccuWeather, also predict an active season.

The first storm of the season will be named Andrea.