Truckers hauling freight along the southern and eastern coasts should prepare themselves for what the National Weather Service forecasts as a “near normal” Atlantic hurricane season, officially starting on June 1 and extending until November 30.

During this period, drivers may encounter disruptions caused by an estimated total of 12 to 17 named storms, characterized by winds of 39 mph or higher. Among these storms, forecasters anticipate that five to nine could intensify into hurricanes, featuring winds of 74 mph or higher. Additionally, one to four major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5), boasting winds exceeding 111 mph, are expected. The weather service expresses 70% confidence in these projected ranges.

Compared to recent years, the forthcoming Atlantic hurricane season is anticipated to be relatively less active. Various factors, both suppressing and fueling storm development, contribute to this near-normal forecast. After experiencing three consecutive hurricane seasons influenced by La Niña, scientists now predict a heightened likelihood of El Niño developing this summer. El Niño typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity. However, any potential impact El Niño may have on storm formation could be offset by favorable conditions localized within the tropical Atlantic Basin.

Truckers are advised to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with the anticipated hurricane season.

“As we saw with Hurricane Ian, it only takes one hurricane to cause widespread devastation and upend lives. So regardless of the number of storms predicted this season, it is critical that everyone understand their risk and heed the warnings of state and local officials. Whether you live on the coast or further inland, hurricanes can cause serious impacts to everybody in their path,” said Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Visit ready.gov or listo.gov for readiness resources, and get real-time emergency alerts by downloading the FEMA App.”