Climate Scientists Predict Another Big Hurricane Year
In 2017, Hurricane Irma left 6.7 million Florida homes and businesses (about 65% of the state) without power, and loss estimates range between $25 billion to $65 billion. With damaging storms occurring more frequently, we need to prepare for 2018’s hurricane season, which begins June 1st.
We read the latest predictions from the world’s top climate and weather scientists. They all tend to agree: 2018 is going to be similar, if not slightly worse, than 2017.
Expert Weather Predictions
Global Weather Oscillations
Global Weather Oscillations predicts that 2018 will be somewhat of a repeat of 2017 – and possibly another record breaker. Although it will be strikingly similar to last year- some hurricane landfalls will occur in different locations this year. You can expect 16 named storms, 8 hurricanes, 4 major hurricanes, potential for 4 United States hurricane landfalls – 2 of which will likely be major impact storms. There is the potential for 6 named storms making United States landfalls. On the average, the entire Atlantic Basin has 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 2.7 major hurricanes.
Colorado State University
Colorado State University’s Department of Atmospheric Science tracks tropical meteorology and makes bi-weekly forecasts during the Atlantic hurricane season from August-October. In their qualitative forecast of 2018, they predict that Florida has a 61% chance of a landfalling hurricane with a 44% chance that it is a category 1 or 2.
Tropical Storm Risk
UK-based climate scientists at Tropical Storm Risk predict a slightly above-normal hurricane season with a 117 Ace Index or 15 named storms, 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes and 47% probability of an above normal season.
Climate Forecast Applications Network
Climate Forecast Applications Network’s prediction is an ACE total of 132 (+/-50) and 1.7 (+/-1.1) US landfalls. An “above normal” season has an ACE index above 111. An extremely active ACE index is above 152. Their forecast predicts 80% probability of an above normal season, and a 90% probability of 1-2 U.S. hurricane landfalls.
Prepare for Hurricane Season
In order to be properly prepared for the 2018 hurricane season, you need to make sure that your life and property are covered. Florida Farm Bureau insurance agents can help you get the coverage you need. We can speak with you about:
- Homeowners Insurance
- Flood Insurance
- Life Insurance
Don’t be unprepared when the next storm hits – find a local Florida Farm Bureau insurance agent who can help.