US forecasters predict slow hurricane season

NEW YORK -- Federal forecasters are predicting a slower than usual hurricane season this year.

Experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released its outlook for the six-month storm season that officially begins June 1. NOAA is calling for 8-13 Tropical Storms, 3-6 Hurricanes, and 1-2 Major Hurricanes.

During the six-month season, forecasters name tropical storms when top winds reach 39 mph; hurricanes have maximum winds of at least 74 mph.

The biggest forecast factor for this hurricane season will be the development of El Nio, which will produce warmer than normal water in the central Pacific.

The Atlantic hurricane season goes through cycles of high and low activity about every 25 to 40 years based on large scale climatic patterns in the atmosphere. Since 1995, an average season has 15 named tropical storms, eight hurricanes and about four major storms. The last time a major hurricane made landfall in the U.S. was when Wilma came ashore in 2005, an eight-year stretch that is currently the longest on record.

However, chief meteorologist Tim Heller stresses the forecast for fewer storms doesn't mean less risk. Previous "below normal" seasons include 1983 which produced Alicia, a category 3 hurricane that hit Houston.

Another year with fewer than average hurricanes: 1992, which was the year of category 5 Hurricane Andrew.

Also this year, officials plan to roll out high-resolution maps that will show people where to expect storm surge. The maps were promised last year and are being implemented for the 2014 season. Remember, storm surge is not used to rank hurricanes.

So what can you do to get ready? The first step to prepare for hurricane season is to find out if you live in an evacuation zone. You can check your zip code here.

You should also check your insurance policy if you own a home. Most standard homeowners insurance policies do not include flood insurance, which you may need if a hurricane was to strike Houston.

Next week, May 25-31, is National Hurricane Preparedness Week. To help those living in hurricane-prone areas prepare, NOAA offers hurricane preparedness tips, along with video and audio public service announcements in both English and Spanish, featuring NOAA hurricane experts and the FEMA Administrator at www.hurricanes.gov/prepare.

You can also learn more about how to prepare for hurricanes at www.ready.gov/hurricanes.