NOAA, AccuWeather Warn of Busy Hurricane Season

NOAA and AccuWeather are forecasting an above-normal 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, projecting 13 to 18 named storms, five to nine hurricanes, and two to five major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). Four named storms—Andrea, Barry, Chantal, and Dexter—have already formed, with Chantal making U.S. landfall and causing deadly floods in the Carolinas. Warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures, an active West African Monsoon, and neutral ENSO conditions are likely to increase storm activity as the season peaks in August and September. Meteorologists are closely monitoring several potential development areas, especially thunderstorm clusters near Africa, though many storms may remain at sea or avoid the U.S. coast. The updated NOAA outlook is consistent with initial May predictions, and experts stress the importance of coastal preparedness. The actual number of U.S. landfalls remains uncertain despite the above-average outlook.