Forecasters at Colorado State University (CSU) predict that 17 additional tropical cyclones could develop during the rest of this year in the Atlantic Ocean.
In a previous forecast in June, the university predicted a total of 20 named storms, including 10 hurricanes.
Five of those hurricanes are predicted to become a Category 3 hurricane or stronger.
The new outlook, released on Thursday, accounts for the three named storms that have already formed: Alex, Bonnie, and Colin.
The names Danielle, Earl, and Fiona are up next.
Like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), CSU forecasts another above-average season.
The National Hurricane Center said Thursday that the number of named storms in the Atlantic is running about a month ahead of normal.
NOAA’s outlook shows a likelihood of 14 to 21 named storms, with six to 10 of those becoming hurricanes.
Three to six storms could become major hurricanes, the agency said, with winds of 111 mph or higher.
The Atlantic hurricane season extends from June 1 to Nov. 30.
Source: SIPSE
