The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration states that they are constantly working to enhance the tools used to forecast storms. This year, new models will be implemented to improve the accuracy of predicting hurricanes, including models that track intensity during the hurricane season.
One new graphic being experimented with by the agency is a forecast count that incorporates elements of the traditional version but includes models for inland areas under tropical storm and hurricane warnings, displayed with color. The updated version will highlight wind hazards not only at coastal areas but also further inland where tropical storm and hurricane winds can cause significant damage when residents are under watches and warnings.
Weather
How to avoid contractor scams when rebuilding after storm damage
3:47 PM, May 28, 2024
Michael Brennan, the director of the National Hurricane Center, expressed hope that these advancements will help change how people perceive storm hazards. The NHC is also working to issue warnings about dangers, such as storm surge, more frequently, at times when people in the affected areas are more likely to see them.
Brennan mentioned that they are forecasting at least 25 named storms for 2024, with 13 likely to develop into hurricanes and 7 becoming major hurricanes of category 3 or higher intensity. Despite these numbers, Brennan advises not to focus on the figures but to stay prepared every year with the understanding that the risk is constant.
